Fri Sep 13 07:47:23 UTC 2024: ## Shimla Mosque Dispute: Muslim Community Agrees to Demolish Unauthorised Portion

**Shimla, Himachal Pradesh:** A tense situation in Shimla over an alleged illegal mosque in Sanjauli has taken a positive turn with the Muslim community agreeing to demolish the unauthorized portion of the structure. The decision was made following a series of protests and clashes between Hindu and Muslim groups in the city.

On September 12th, representatives of the Muslim Welfare Committee submitted a memorandum to the Shimla Municipal Corporation Commissioner, Bhupender Kumar Attri, requesting permission to demolish the illegal part of the mosque. They assured authorities that the committee would undertake the demolition themselves, in accordance with court orders.

The decision comes a day after violent clashes between Hindu protesters and security forces. Protesters demanding the demolition of the mosque’s illegal portion clashed with police, resulting in injuries to several people, including police personnel and women.

The Muslim community representatives maintained that they were permanent residents of Himachal Pradesh and were committed to maintaining peace and harmony in the region. The Imam of the mosque reiterated that they had no external pressure and were taking this initiative for the sake of brotherhood.

The move has been welcomed by the Dev Bhoomi Sangarsh Committee, who had spearheaded the protests against the illegal construction. The committee, expressing relief, said they would be the first to embrace the Muslim community for taking this proactive step.

The dispute over the mosque has been ongoing for 14 years. The Waqf Board recently argued in court that it owns the mosque and the dispute is about its further development. The Shimla Municipal Corporation Commissioner’s court has scheduled the next hearing for October 5th.

While the situation appears to be de-escalating with the Muslim community’s decision, the incident has highlighted the simmering tensions between religious groups in the state. The incident has also raised questions about the role of local authorities in ensuring the proper regulation of religious structures.

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