Clashes Erupt Over Mosque Demolition in Shimla

Protesters clashed with security forces in Shimla, demanding the demolition of an illegal mosque portion. In response, authorities used water cannons and baton charges, leading to injuries. The situation prompted calls for a bandh and raised concerns over law and order, compelling government officials to monitor the situation closely.

Protesters demanding the demolition of an illegal portion of a mosque in Shimla's Sanjauli area clashed with security personnel on Wednesday, breaking barricades and pelting stones as police used water cannons and baton charged to disperse them. About 10 people, including police and women, were injured.

Public Works Vikramaditya Singh expressed the government's serious concern over the escalation and assured they are closely monitoring developments.

"We are in touch with the central leadership and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, and I have spoken to party president Mallikarjun Kharge and in-charge Rajiv Shukla. They are also committed to ensuring no deterioration in the law and order situation," he said.