Sanjauli mosque row: BJP’s former Shimla Mayor, councillor among 43 named in FIR for inciting violence, attacking cops
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Shimla: In a major development surrounding the Sanjauli mosque controversy in Himachal Pradesh capital Shimla, the police have registered multiple FIRs against 43 persons, including a former BJP Mayor, councillors and other local leaders. The protests, which saw thousands of participants, took place despite the imposition of Section 163 of the BNSS, leading to clashes between protesters and the police.
The police have named former Mayor Satya Kaundal and several prominent leaders, including Indernagar BJP councillor Kamlesh Mehta and Hindu Tirth Manch leader Kamal Gautam, in the FIR. They have been charged with organising illegal protests, inciting violence and attacking police personnel.
Violent protests and stone pelting
The protests, which erupted in the busy Sanjauli market, turned violent as demonstrators clashed with the police. Videos of the incident, released by the police, show protesters engaging in stone-pelting, targeting law enforcement personnel. The police are currently identifying individuals involved in the stone-throwing incident using video footage.
According to the police, the situation escalated when demonstrators allegedly attacked commandos, injuring several officers. The authorities had to resort to the use of force to control the situation and restore order.
Prominent leaders named in FIR
The FIR includes a list of prominent figures, such as Simi Sood, Mahendra Kumar (Neelu), Vikas Thapta, Naresh, Vijay Sharma and others. These individuals have been accused of leading the illegal protests, inciting violence and attacking police personnel. The list also includes local leaders like Prince, Naresh Verma, Ashok Pathak and Sanjeev Verma.
Superintendent of Police Sanjeev Gandhi stated, “A case has been registered against those involved in unlawful protests and attacking police officers. A thorough investigation is underway, and more names may be added as the probe progresses.”
Section 163 violations
Despite the imposition of Section 163, which prohibits public gatherings and protests without prior permission, the protesters gathered in large numbers, defying the restrictions. The police have been closely monitoring the situation and additional names are likely to be included in the ongoing investigation.
The Sanjauli mosque dispute has heightened tensions in the area with security being increased to prevent further unrest. The police are on high alert to avoid any escalation of violence and have urged both communities to maintain peace and cooperate with law enforcement.
