Non-registered Muslim workers not allowed to offer Friday prayers at disputed Sanjauli mosque
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Shimla: Friday prayers were conducted under strict police surveillance at the disputed Sanjauli mosque in Himachal Pradesh capital Shimla, with only those from the Muslim community who had undergone police verification and registration being allowed inside.
Over 80 persons were permitted to offer the Friday prayers, while more than 20 individuals without proper registration were turned away by the police.
The mosque, currently embroiled in a dispute over alleged illegal construction, has been under police security for some time. Anticipating a larger crowd for Friday prayers, additional police personnel were deployed outside the mosque from the morning hours. By 1 pm, people began arriving to perform their prayers.
olice officers stationed at the mosque entrance conducted thorough checks, allowing entry only to those who had completed the registration and verification process. Those who did not have the necessary documentation were asked to visit the police station to complete the required formalities before being allowed to pray in the future.
The Friday prayers were offered at 1.30 pm, with about 80 registered individuals taking part. Police reiterated that in the future, only those who present verified documents will be allowed to participate in the prayers. They also asked the mosque’s cleric to inform the community of the verification requirement to ensure compliance.
