Palampur: Hindu groups forcefully damage, shut shops owned by Muslims | WATCH

Palampur: Recent mosque dispute in Sanjauli, Shimla has ignited a wave of unrest that is quickly spreading to other cities in Himachal Pradesh. Violent protests, reportedly initiated by Hindu organizations, have led to incidents of vandalism across various cities. Among them, Palampur has witnessed minor acts of vandalism today, escalating tensions in the region.

Violence spreads to Palampur amid protests, video surfaces

In Palampur, several shops owned by members of the Muslim community were targeted by Hindu groups. Videos circulating on social media show protesters chanting anti-Muslim slogans in the presence of police forces. The situation has raised concerns about the growing unrest, as Palampur is the latest city to experience violence following similar incidents in Mandi and Shimla.

#Palampur: Shops belonging to Muslim community being vandalised by Hindu extremists in Palampur, HP amid anti muslim slogan in presence of police force.

Violence reached Palampur, Himachal Pradesh now after Mandi and Shimla following the protests to demolish Masjid in… pic.twitter.com/tykN2CdX2Z

— Saba Khan (@ItsKhan_Saba) September 15, 2024

Protests rooted in Sanjauli mosque dispute

The protests began in response to a demand for the demolition of a mosque in Sanjauli, Shimla. What started as a localized issue has rapidly escalated into a broader communal dispute, now affecting several parts of the state. Hindu organizations have organized protests across Himachal Pradesh, leading to vandalism and growing tensions between communities.

Political leaders question the government's response

Prominent political figures, including Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, have questioned the state government’s handling of the situation. Addressing Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on social media, Gandhi criticized the government’s inability to protect the minority community, which constitutes only 2% of the state’s population. He also raised concerns about the lack of inclusive governance, alluding to the Congress party’s promise of unity and compassion.

The mosque dispute, and the subsequent violence, continue to raise alarm across the state, as authorities grapple with restoring peace and ensuring the safety of all communities.