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The Sanjauli mosque in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, has been the focal point of escalating tensions due to a dispute over unauthorized construction. In a bid to de-escalate the situation, a Muslim welfare committee has taken a significant step, offering to demolish the unauthorized portion of the mosque in accordance with a court order.
The committee, comprising the Imam of the mosque, members of the Waqf board, and the mosque management committee, made the offer to the Shimla Municipal Commissioner Bhupendra Attri. The committee, in their representation, emphasized that Muslims living in the locality are permanent residents of Himachal Pradesh and that this step is being taken to preserve harmony and brotherhood.
Mufti Mohammad Shafi Kasmi, a member of the welfare committee, stated that they have sought permission from the municipal commissioner to demolish the unauthorized part of the mosque. The Imam of the Sanjauli mosque further clarified that there is no pressure on them and that this decision has been taken as Himachali residents, emphasizing their commitment to peace and brotherhood.
The Dev Bhoomi Sangarh Committee, which had organized protests against the unauthorized construction in the mosque, welcomed the move by the Muslim community. Vijay Sharma, a member of the samiti, stated that they would be the first to embrace the Muslim community for taking this initiative in the larger interest.
The dispute over the unauthorized construction in the mosque had led to protests by Hindu organizations who demanded the demolition of the disputed structure and the registration of outsiders coming to the state. These organizations had called for a Sanjauli bandh on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, to press for their demands.
The case of unauthorized or illegal construction of some floors in the mosque is currently being heard by the court of the municipal corporation. Prior to the Muslim panel's offer, Hindu groups had staged massive protests at the Chaura Maidan in Shimla, in the vicinity of the Vidhan Sabha and Sanjauli, on September 5, 2024, to push for their demands. This latest development, however, suggests a potential for de-escalation and resolution of the conflict.
The offer to demolish the unauthorized portion of the mosque is a significant step towards easing tensions and preserving harmony in the region. It demonstrates the Muslim community's commitment to upholding the law and maintaining peaceful coexistence with other communities. The response from the Dev Bhoomi Sangarh Committee also indicates a willingness to engage in dialogue and find a resolution that benefits all parties involved.