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HomeNewsAsiaTensions Soar Over Alleged Illegal Mosque in Shimla: Security Tightened, Prohibitory Orders...

Tensions Soar Over Alleged Illegal Mosque in Shimla: Security Tightened, Prohibitory Orders Enforced Amid Bandh Call

In response to growing unrest, the Shimla administration has implemented strict prohibitory measures, banning large gatherings and the possession of weapons, as Hindu groups demand a shutdown over the mosque dispute.

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As tensions flare in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, over the alleged illegal construction of a mosque in Sanjauli, the district administration has ramped up security and imposed prohibitory orders to maintain peace. Hindu groups have called for a bandh, intensifying the situation and prompting authorities to enforce stricter measures under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023.

The district administration has invoked Section 163 of the BNSS, prohibiting the gathering of five or more people without prior permission and banning the carrying of weapons, including lathis, swords, and other sharp objects. This move comes in response to protests led by right-wing groups demanding the demolition of what they claim is an illegal mosque.

Security Bolstered in Shimla Amid Rising Tensions

Security has been heightened in the Sanjauli area following the bandh call from Hindu groups. They demand the demolition of the mosque, which they claim was constructed illegally, and stricter regulations on the registration of outsiders entering the state.

READ MORE: Erdoğan Calls for Islamic Nations to Unite Against Israel Amid Escalating Tensions

Shimla’s Superintendent of Police, Sanjeev Kumar Gandhi, appealed for calm, emphasizing, “We have engaged in dialogue with key stakeholders, and we are optimistic that the protest will remain peaceful.” Earlier, Director General of Police (DGP) Atul Verma assured the public that police forces had been deployed extensively to prevent any escalation. “We are closely monitoring the situation,” Verma said, adding that intelligence is being gathered to preempt any potential law violations.

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He also noted that the local administration, along with other departments, is working to defuse the situation. “This is primarily a local dispute, and it is being managed by the municipal corporation, district authorities, and the police,” he said.

Prohibitory Orders and Restrictions

In response to the escalating tensions, the Shimla administration has imposed stringent prohibitory orders in the Sanjauli region. These restrictions, effective from 7 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, prohibit large gatherings, carrying dangerous weapons, and organizing rallies or strikes without prior approval. Public demonstrations, slogan-shouting, and acts causing disruption to traffic or public movement have also been banned.

The administration further clarified that burning of inflammable materials at public places or places of worship will not be tolerated, and violators will face legal action.

Political Leaders Urge Calm, Avoid Politicization

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has called for calm, stressing that the situation should not be politicized. Maintaining law and order is the government’s responsibility. While peaceful protests are a democratic right, it should not cause harm to any community,” Sukhu said.

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He reiterated that Himachal Pradesh has always upheld respect for all religions and emphasized that the issue of the mosque’s construction is under legal review. “The case regarding the alleged illegal construction of certain floors is in the Municipal Corporation’s court, and the law will take its course. We are urging for an expedited decision on this matter,” he added.

Sukhu also explained that the conflict originated from a minor dispute regarding vendor policies, and a committee has been formed by the Vidhan Sabha Speaker to resolve the issue.

Hindu Groups’ Demands: Demolition of “Illegal” Structure and Outsider Registration

The protests have been led by Hindu Jagran Manch’s Himachal Pradesh unit, with its president Kamal Gautam calling for the demolition of the “illegal” mosque in Sanjauli. He claimed that outsiders are using the site for shelter and called for the dissolution of the Waqf Board and stricter registration processes for non-locals entering the state.

Devi Bhumi Kshatriya Sangathan president Rumit Singh Thakur rallied Hindu groups across the state, urging people to unite in support of the bandh. The response has been overwhelming, showing the strength of Sanatan unity,” he remarked.

Political Response: Legal, Not Religious Issue

Key political leaders have emphasized that the matter is not about religion but about legality. Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh noted that the mosque in question has been built on government land and that the issue has been tied up in court for the last 14 years. “This is not a religious issue; it’s about what is legal and what is illegal,” Singh stated.

Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh also underscored that legal procedures will be followed in addressing any violations. “No one is above the law. Whether it’s the police or the municipal corporation, action will be taken within the legal framework,” he affirmed.

As the situation remains tense, all eyes are on how the administration will manage the growing unrest while ensuring peace in the region.

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