Yog Raj Sharma
The North News
Shimla, May 23
Tensions escalated in Shimla’s Sanjauli area on Friday as a local civic group, Devbhoomi Sangharsh Samiti, protested against administrative inaction over a mosque demolition order and raised alarm over what it described as a “serious national security lapse.” The group’s protest followed a May 3 ruling by the Commissioner’s Court of the Shimla Municipal Corporation, which declared all five storeys of a religious structure in Sanjauli to be unauthorised and ordered its demolition. Despite this order, gatherings at the site have continued under police protection, prompting the Samiti to stage a demonstration and recite religious verses in symbolic defiance.
“This structure has been ruled illegal. The continued activities here—especially under police watch—send a disturbing signal about the enforcement of legal decisions,” said Madan Thakur, co-convener of the Samiti. He warned that if the situation is not brought under control, the group will intensify its protest.
Adding to the pressure on local authorities, the Samiti also claimed that approximately 500 migrants have been residing in the area without any police verification over the past two years. Co-convener Vijay Sharma termed the situation a “national security issue”, warning that failure to verify the identities and backgrounds of such a large number of individuals could pose a risk.
“This is not just a matter of legality, but of safety and security. Authorities must act swiftly,” Sharma said. He added that the organisation is planning an internal strategy meeting later in the day to determine further action.
The district administration and police have not yet responded to the group’s dual demands—enforcement of the demolition order and immediate verification of migrants in the area. The story will be updated as and when their statements are made available.
