Bandh observed in Shimla; mosque panel offers to demolish illegal part

Amid increasing pressure on the Shimla administration and rising protests, the managing committee of the controversial mosque has formally offered to demolish the unauthorised portion of the mosque, pending approval from the Shimla Municipal Corporation.

- ASHWANI SHARMA

Alternatively, the corporation could issue an order to seal the illegally constructed floors as a measure to address the situation and maintain peace.

The mosque existed at the site of the present day fivestorey building since the preIndependence era but illegal floors were built between 2010 and 2023, primarily the Covid period.

Following protests by the Hindu organisations on Wednesday, a delegation of the Muslim leaders met Municipal Corporation Commissioner Bhupendra Attri on Thursday and submitted a memorandum.

The Imam of the mosque also accompanied other leaders, including Mohammad Latif.