Clashes erupted between protesters and security forces in Himachal Pradesh’ Mandi district, during demonstrations demanding the demolition of an alleged illegal structure within a mosque on Jail Road. The protest was organised by Hindu groups against the mosque, which is partly built on land owned by the Public Works Department. A complaint was filed against the illegal structure.
The protest in Mandi followed recent clashes in Shimla over an illegal construction at a mosque at Sanjauli.
On Friday, the police deployed water cannons as protesters attempted to breach barricades on Jail Road.
“More than 600 people gathered at Seri Manch in the middle of Mandi. First, they chanted Hanuman Chalisa and later, they started marching towards the mosque. The route to the mosque was barricaded but protesters tried to breach the barricades. To disperse them, we used a few tear gas shells. No injuries have been reported so far,” a police officer said, per Indian Express.
The unrest occurred despite Mandi Municipal Corporation Commissioner H H Rana’s order to maintain the status quo of the original structure and demolish the illegal part within 30 days.
On Thursday, members of the Muslim community demolished the unauthorised portion of the mosque on Jail Road, according to India Today.
“The representatives of the mosque were told to demolish the illegal structure within 30 days. If they do not, the structure will be demolished by the administration. The matter pertaining to the mosque came to our notice when a local moved a complaint in 2023. It was disposed of today. The decision was conveyed to the protesters…The situation is under control,” Rana told The Indian Express.
Heavy security measures were implemented to maintain order in Mandi.
“Yesterday, members of the mosque committee and Muslim community had demolished a certain disputed structure reportedly said to be on PWD land. But some Hindu organisations had already given a call of protest for today,” a police officer said.
Iqbal Ali, a member of the mosque committee, stated that the community decided to demolish the illegal structure voluntarily, as it was on PWD land.
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu urged residents to uphold peace and harmony. At an all-party meeting, Sukhu commented on the involvement of youths in such disputes and the ensuing political tension.
“Discussion was held with all parties and all agreed that Himachal Pradesh is a peace-loving state and everyone has the right to work. No such thing must be done that impacts any specific community. We have passed a resolution. We appeal to all that maintain peace in Himachal and maintain brotherhood. We want the Legislative Assembly to form a committee on street vendors,” the Chief Minister said.
