The spotlight remains on the local administration to ensure that future disputes are handled with care, transparency, and a commitment to the rule of law
Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
NEW DELHI – In a significant move to promote peace and communal harmony, the Muslim community in Mandi town of Himachal Pradesh voluntarily demolished the disputed section of a mosque located on Jail Road.
The action comes amidst growing protests by Hindu organisations who had raised concerns about the construction on public land. By taking this step, the local Muslim community expressed its commitment to maintaining unity and preventing further escalation of tensions.
The controversy surrounding the mosque began when Hindu organisations in Mandi and other areas of the state objected to the mosque’s expansion. They claimed that part of the structure was built on land belonging to the Public Works Department (PWD). Tensions had risen over the past few days, with demonstrators taking to the streets, reciting Hindu hymns, and chanting slogans like “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Vande Mataram.”
In an effort to prevent the situation from spiralling out of control, Muslims of Mandi took the initiative to demolish the disputed portion of the mosque themselves. “We are not acting under pressure from any group or individual. This is a decision taken by our community to follow the law and maintain peace,” said Iqbal Ali, a mosque committee member. “We respect the administration’s orders and hope this step will promote brotherhood. We had applied for a No Objection Certificate (NOC) earlier, but it wasn’t processed in time. Regardless, we believe this is the right course of action to avoid misunderstandings.”
Goodwill Gesture Ignored
Despite this proactive step, Hindu organisations continued their protests. Tensions were high, particularly after a similar dispute in Sanjauli area in Shimla, where protests against a mosque construction had turned confrontational. In Mandi, protesters gathered at Seri Chanani, raising slogans and demanding further action from the authorities. “We demand that all illegal structures be removed. The law should be the same for everyone,” said one protestor.
A rally organised by Hindu groups reached Skudi Chowk on Jail Road, where a heavy police presence was deployed to maintain order. As tensions escalated, a clash broke out between protesters and police, prompting authorities to use water cannons to disperse the crowd. Although the situation remained volatile, no major injuries were reported.
The situation began to ease after Deputy Commissioner (DC) Apoorva Devgan intervened, initiating dialogue with leaders of the protesting Hindu groups. The official assured them that their concerns would be addressed through lawful channels. “We are committed to ensuring that the law is upheld and peace is maintained. Our priority is the safety of all citizens, and we will take appropriate action after reviewing the situation,” he said during a press briefing.
Following this assurance, most protesters agreed to temporarily halt their demonstration, though they vowed to monitor developments closely. The intervention of the local administration played a key role in preventing the situation from turning into widespread unrest.
Call for Brotherhood, Peace
For the local Muslim community, demolishing the disputed structure was more than just a legal matter. It was a symbol of goodwill and true to their desire to preserve Mandi’s long-standing tradition of peaceful coexistence between religious communities. “We have always lived in peace with our Hindu brothers and sisters. The last thing we want is for a place of worship to become a source of conflict,” said a resident, reflecting the sentiment of many in the area.
The mosque, situated on private land, had an extension that allegedly encroached on a PWD land. The mosque committee emphasised that they are in the process of seeking the necessary approvals for future construction and that they intend to comply fully with local regulations. “Our goal is to ensure that any future construction work adheres to the law, and we hope to rebuild the dismantled portion with proper permissions in place,” said another member of the mosque committee.
Lingering Concerns
While the demolition of the disputed section has temporarily eased tensions, concerns remain on both sides. Hindu organisations have indicated that they will continue to monitor religious structures across the region, ensuring they comply with legal guidelines. “We will keep a close eye on developments. Our stance is simple: the law must be applied equally to all,” said a spokesperson for one of the protesting groups.
On the other hand, the Muslims are hopeful that their actions will pave the way for a more peaceful dialogue. “This isn’t just about a building; it’s about maintaining the peace and harmony we’ve cherished for years,” said a local Muslim leader. “We believe this step demonstrates our commitment to resolving disputes peacefully, and we hope others will recognise this effort.”
Delicate Balance
The mosque controversy in Mandi is a microcosm of the delicate balance that defines communal relations in Himachal Pradesh. The state, known for its scenic beauty and generally peaceful coexistence between different religious groups, has seen growing concerns over religious structures in recent years. As both communities navigate the aftermath of the protests, it is crucial for local leaders to foster dialogue, ensuring that the region’s long-standing traditions of harmony and mutual respect are upheld.
The voluntary demolition of the mosque’s disputed section stands as a testament to the Muslim community’s desire for peace. As the local administration continues to address the legalities surrounding the issue, there is hope that this gesture will set a precedent for resolving such disputes in a manner that promotes understanding rather than division.
The actions of the Muslim community in Mandi send a powerful message: maintaining peace and harmony is paramount. In a time when communal tensions can escalate quickly, their decision to take down the disputed section of the mosque voluntarily shows that cooperation and dialogue can prevent conflict. As both Hindu and Muslim groups continue to engage with local authorities, the hope remains that peaceful coexistence will prevail in Mandi, just as it has for generations.
