Historic Shimla mosque faces partial demolition due to legal disputes

The Sanjauli Mosque in Shimla has started a partial demolition process following official permission from the Waqf Board, as three unauthorized floors face being demolished amid tight security. The controversial mosque aims to ease community tensions.

Muhammad Latif, chairman of the mosque management committee, told PTI that the demolition was initiated following a directive received from the municipal commissioner’s court on October 5, demanding removal of the disputed sections within two month.

Despite financial difficulties, the mosque committee took responsibility for the demolition costs, a sign of a commitment to peace. However, the All Himachal Muslims Organization plans to legally challenge the order, citing further debate on the legitimacy of unauthorized structures and pending approvals.

(With input from agencies.)