Hindu organizations, including the Himachal Devbhoomi Sangharsh Samiti, took to the streets on Saturday, accusing the state government of failing to address the ongoing illegal mosque expansions. (X)
Himachal Pradesh News: The issue of illegal construction in mosques, beginning with a case in Shimla, has escalated, spreading across Himachal Pradesh and igniting protests in 12 districts. Hindu organizations, including the Himachal Devbhoomi Sangharsh Samiti, took to the streets on Saturday, accusing the state government of failing to address the ongoing illegal mosque expansions. Bharat Bhushan, the group’s convenor, voiced his concerns to the media, criticizing the government's lenient stance. "The state government is not taking this issue seriously," Bhushan said. "Illegal construction has continued for a long time without any action. When we raise our voice, our workers are targeted with police cases."
A recent protest in Shimla saw demonstrators attempting to breach police barricades near the mosque in question. Initially, the police tried to control the growing crowd peacefully, but as tensions heightened, they resorted to lathi-charging some protesters. Several members of the Hindu organization were detained during the clash.
#WATCH | Shimla, Himachal Pradesh: Devbhoomi Sangharsh Samiti Organisation holds protest over the Sanjauli Mosque Row pic.twitter.com/AGylfquypx
— ANI (@ANI) September 28, 2024
At the center of the controversy is the alleged violation of local construction laws. According to the Shimla Municipal Corporation, the mosque had permission for a structure up to two and a half floors, yet five floors have been built, drawing ire from local communities and Hindu groups. Protests have surged as the violation is seen as a disregard for the rules.
As tensions in Shimla persist, a similar case in Mandi has also come to light. The illegal construction of a mosque on Jail Road is under investigation by a six-member committee, which has already submitted its findings to the Municipal Corporation Commissioner. Protests are expected to continue as the situation unfolds.
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