Himachal DGP Labels Sanjauli Mosque Controversy a “Local Dispute” as Efforts to Diffuse Tensions Continue

Amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the legality of the Sanjauli Mosque construction in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Atul Verma has characterized the issue as a “local dispute” and emphasized efforts to de-escalate the situation and prevent any further incidents.

Verma stated that the district administration, municipal commissioner, and Shimla’s Superintendent of Police (SP) are working together to address the situation. He added, “A meeting was held to address the communal tensions, with all relevant stakeholders participating. We are treating this as a local dispute, gathering intelligence, and making preparations. The district administration, municipal commissioner, and SP Shimla, along with other departments, are actively working to diffuse the situation and ensure no untoward incidents occur.”

The issue is currently before the Municipal Commissioner’s court in Shimla, with the next hearing scheduled for October 5. Advocate BS Thakur, representing the Waqf Board, stated on September 7 that a notice regarding unauthorized construction had been issued by the Municipal Corporation Shimla. Thakur explained that they had responded with documents showing that the mosque was listed as Waqf property in a 1947 survey. A status report on the property will be filed, and a response will be submitted at the next court hearing.

On September 5, Himachal Pradesh Assembly Leader of Opposition and BJP leader Jairam Thakur called for peace and criticized the Congress government for its handling of the situation. He stated, “This issue was discussed in the Vidhan Sabha, and despite a case being lodged in 2010, no action has been taken. The people should maintain peace, and the current government is fully responsible.”

Himachal Pradesh Minister Vikramaditya Singh also weighed in, asserting that if the mosque is found to be illegal, appropriate action will be taken. The Vidhan Sabha witnessed a heated debate on September 4 regarding the mosque’s construction.