The uproar over the disputed mosque in Shimla’s Sanjauli suburb is not stopping. Thousands of Hindus created a ruckus on Wednesday. Despite the use of lathicharge and water cannon, the crowd reached close to the mosque. Meanwhile, Congress government minister Vikramaditya Singh has said that if the mosque is found to be illegal, it will be demolished.
Vikramaditya Singh told ANI, ‘The situation is very clear that everyone has the right to protest peacefully. The government has also said that you can protest but no such situation should be created which affects the peaceful atmosphere, for this the police took precautionary steps. Section 163 was imposed and the area was converted into a cantonment so that no such situation arises which raises questions on the law and order of the state.’
Sukhu government minister said that if the mosque is declared illegal by the court, it will be demolished. He expressed support for the protesters and appealed to maintain law and order.
Vikramaditya Singh said, ‘As far as the construction of illegal building is concerned, this matter is in the court. After this the government will take a decision. We have clearly said that if it is found to be illegal, then it will definitely be demolished under the legal process. But this can be done only after the order of the Municipal Commissioner. It is not right to take action before that. We respect everyone’s feelings. We have the right to express our views peacefully. We support the colleagues who have come there today, we stand with them but law and order has to be maintained.’
