The protesters were seen reciting Hanuman Chalisa during the demonstration.

Himachal Pradesh Mandi Mosque Controversy, Demolition Latest News Today: In a significant ruling, the Municipal Corporation Commissioner Court in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, has ordered the demolition of two illegally constructed floors of a mosque within 30 days. The decision was delivered by Municipal Commissioner HS Rana on Friday, sparking protests from Hindu organizations.

The mosque, located on Jail Road in Mandi city, is a 30-year-old three-storey structure. Allegations were made that two of its floors were built without proper authorization, and now, the court has directed that these floors be removed.

During the court hearing, Hindu organizations gathered to protest the alleged illegal construction. The police, prepared for potential unrest, set up barricades around the mosque. To disperse the crowd, water cannons were deployed, and scuffles between protesters and police ensued. The protesters were seen reciting Hanuman Chalisa during the demonstration.

Meanwhile, another mosque dispute has emerged in Shimla, where controversy surrounds a five-storey mosque in Sanjauli. Locals claim that three of the floors were illegally built, leading to ongoing protests for the past 15 days.

The Mandi mosque’s land is registered under the name of a Muslim woman, and it is alleged that two additional floors were constructed in March 2024 without permission on what was originally a one-storey structure. The Municipal Corporation had issued a notice to halt the construction in June, and an investigation revealed that part of the land belongs to the Public Works Department (PWD). Additionally, a wall adjacent to the road was found to be built illegally.

Talks Between Administration and Hindu Organizations Remain Inconclusive

On September 12, a meeting between the local administration and Hindu organizations aimed at resolving the dispute ended without resolution. Following this, Hindu organizations declared their intent to continue protesting. Mandi Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan urged the public to remain peaceful, emphasizing that action is being taken in accordance with the law and that strict measures would be taken against those causing disruptions.

CM Sukhu's Statement: "Respect for All Religions"

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu commented on the situation, acknowledging the illegal construction in Mandi. He stated that a committee would be formed to address the mosque dispute and reaffirmed that Himachal Pradesh is a peace-loving state that respects all religions. He emphasized that no religion or caste would be hurt and that the government would take appropriate legal action against illegal constructions, ensuring that it would be done within the framework of the law.

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