Himachal Muslim Society Pursues Legal Path to Preserve Sanjauli Mosque
Renewed Efforts to Secure Mosque Legitimacy
Shimla: The long-standing conflict regarding the Sanjauli mosque in Himachal Pradesh has intensified, as the All Himachal Muslim Welfare Society has announced plans to seek official recognition for the mosque's current structure. The society intends to initiate new proceedings with the Municipal Corporation (MC) to regularize the mosque's status, aiming to prevent further demolition of its remaining floors.
During a press conference in Shimla, society president Najakat Ali Hashmi emphasized that revenue records dating back to 1915 confirm the mosque's existence on Khasra number 107. He stated, “The 1997-98 documents also list the Sanjauli mosque, indicating that the structure is not illegal,” highlighting that government records explicitly refer to it as a gair mumkin masjid.
Hashmi noted that a building plan was submitted to the MC in 2013, asserting that according to the MC Act, if no objections are raised within 90 days, the plan is automatically approved. He claimed that the civic body did not raise any objections at that time.
While he acknowledged that a five-storey building was constructed without formal approval, he mentioned that the top two floors have already been removed. “We are willing to modify the mosque in accordance with regulations. No part of the remaining structure is illegal,” he stated.
Previous Legal Challenges
The Muslim Welfare Society's ownership claims have not been supported by either the MC Commissioner’s court or the district court, both of which upheld the demolition orders issued by the civic body, deeming the entire structure unauthorized.
After the district court rejected their appeal and mandated the complete removal of the mosque by December 30, the case was escalated to the Himachal Pradesh High Court. The court has ordered the demolition of the upper three floors while maintaining the status quo on the lower two levels for the time being.
Tensions Rise Following Clashes
The Sanjauli mosque became a focal point of controversy following clashes between two groups in the Mehli area on August 31, 2024. Reports indicated that some individuals sought refuge inside the mosque, leading to protests outside the site the following day.
In September, tensions heightened as Hindu organizations ramped up demonstrations, calling for the mosque's demolition. After negotiations, the mosque committee agreed to remove the unauthorized sections, and partial demolition commenced following MC orders issued on October 5, 2024.
The dispute has since progressed through various legal channels, with new hearings anticipated as the Muslim group seeks approval for a revised building plan.