Why Did the Shimla Court Order the Demolition of a Mosque?
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Synopsis
The recent court ruling in Shimla has ignited protests over the demolition of a mosque deemed illegal. This decision follows a series of legal challenges and community tensions that have highlighted deeper issues surrounding religious structures and local governance. What does this mean for communities in the area?
Key Takeaways
- Shimla court upheld demolition of illegal mosque.
- Additional District Judge Yajuvinder Singh confirmed the ruling.
- Waqf Board's appeals were dismissed.
- Community tensions have escalated due to this ruling.
- Legal and social implications remain significant.
Shimla, Oct 30 (NationPress) A court in Shimla on Thursday reaffirmed the ruling from the Municipal Commissioner's Court to demolish the mosque in Sanjauli, situated on the outskirts of the capital of Himachal Pradesh. This decision has sparked significant protests as the mosque was deemed illegal.
Rejecting the appeals filed by the Himachal Pradesh Waqf Board and the Sanjauli Mosque Committee, Additional District and Sessions Judge Yajuvinder Singh ordered the demolition of all floors of the mosque, which has been officially classified as illegal.
On May 3, the Commissioner's Court mandated the Waqf Board and the Mosque Committee to take down the mosque after labeling it unlawful.
In response to the court’s ruling, both the Waqf Board and the Mosque Committee challenged the decision in the district court of Shimla.
However, the Sanjauli Mosque Committee indicated plans to escalate their appeal to the high court.
Advocate Jagat Pal, representing the petitioners, confirmed that the Waqf Board and the Mosque Committee had submitted two appeals in the district court.
Both of these appeals were subsequently dismissed by the district court.
"Now the entire mosque will be demolished," Pal shared with the media.
Previously, the Municipal Commissioner’s Court had ordered the removal of two additional floors of the mosque.
A similar directive was issued last year for the demolition of three floors.
The Waqf Board's counsel argued that the mosque existed prior to 1947 and was reconstructed after its earlier demolition.
However, Commissioner Bhupender Kumar Attri questioned why the requisite permissions, including architectural plans, were not secured from the municipal corporation for its reconstruction.
Additionally, the Waqf Board could not provide the mosque's revenue records during the court proceedings.
The Himachal Pradesh High Court had instructed the Municipal Commissioner to resolve this matter by May 8.
The Commissioner's Court issued the demolition order after considering both sides' arguments.
A communal conflict erupted in September last year when certain community members sought refuge in the mosque.
Local residents, supported by Hindu organizations, called for the demolition of what they claim is an unauthorized structure and demanded the registration of non-residents entering the state.
Point of View
It's essential to present a balanced view on this sensitive issue. The court's decision reflects legal adherence, yet the community's response highlights the ongoing tensions in society. It is crucial to recognize the importance of dialogue and understanding in addressing such conflicts, ensuring that all voices are heard and respected.
NationPress
31/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the demolition order for the mosque?
The demolition order was issued due to the mosque being deemed illegal by the Municipal Commissioner, which was upheld by the Shimla court.
What legal actions have been taken by the mosque committee?
The Sanjauli Mosque Committee has challenged the court's decision in the high court after their appeals were dismissed in the district court.
What are the implications of this ruling?
The ruling has intensified community tensions and raised questions about the legality of religious structures in the area.
When was the mosque originally built?
The mosque is claimed to have existed prior to 1947 and was rebuilt after being previously demolished.
What was the community's reaction to the court's decision?
Local residents and Hindu organizations have protested against the mosque, calling for its demolition due to claims of it being unauthorized.
