Hindu outfits again call for mass protest in Mandi on November 19, seek to reclaim mosque land
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MANDI: In a renewed push to reclaim a site in Mandi that Hindu organisations claim is a historical Hindu sacred ground, the Chhoti Kashi Devbhoomi Sangharsh Samiti has called for a large-scale protest on November 19. This protest, to be held at the city’s iconic Seri Manch, aims to bring attention to alleged encroachment and unauthorised construction of a mosque on the disputed land.
Speaking at a press conference in Mandi, samiti convener Gopal Kapoor and co-convener Gagan Pradeep Bahl reiterated that the site, designated as Khasra No. 1280 in revenue records, was historically used as a Hindu temple. They asserted that there are ample records and local testimonies to support this claim. “This sacred site has been unlawfully occupied, and the administration has repeatedly ignored our calls for an excavation to confirm the site’s original status. Despite our continuous appeals, the authorities have not taken any action,” said Kapoor.
The upcoming protest follows similar demonstrations held across Himachal Pradesh, including notable gatherings in Mandi, Shimla, and other towns, where various Hindu organisations have united against alleged encroachments on religious sites. These prior protests highlighted public frustration over administrative inaction and were widely covered by local and state media.
Calls for participation from local community
As frustration mounts, the samiti is urging locals to assemble at Seri Manch on November 19 at 11 am to put pressure on government authorities for immediate action. “We aim to demonstrate peacefully,” Bahl added, urging community members to participate in a disciplined manner. He stated, “This is a stand for the protection of our heritage and our community’s rights. We will reclaim this site, and we won’t allow any unauthorised occupation.”
This planned demonstration is expected to draw a large crowd from surrounding districts, with community leaders and residents eager to support the cause. The protest at Seri Manch will be a significant moment in the ongoing conflict between Hindu organisations and local authorities regarding the reclamation of land believed to hold religious significance.
Longstanding dispute over sacred sites
The November 19 protest is only the latest in a series of confrontations between Hindu organisations and authorities regarding sites allegedly altered or encroached upon without consideration of their cultural or religious importance. Past protests in Shimla and other areas of the state have focused on similar issues, demanding transparency and respect for local religious landmarks.
While the Chhoti Kashi Devbhoomi Sangharsh Samiti has stressed that this demonstration will be conducted peacefully, leaders have hinted at further action should the administration fail to address their demands. For now, they hope that a strong showing at the upcoming protest will compel authorities to initiate an investigation and excavation of the site.
