Hindutva groups call for demolition of mosque in Himachal Pradesh
Shimla: Hindutva groups have staged protests in Himachal Pradesh, demanding the demolition of the historic Jamia Masjid in Nurpur, Kangra district in the BJP ruled Himachal Pradesh state.
According to Kashmir Media Service, tensions have escalated as these Hindutva organizations continue their push to tear down the mosque, located near the Nurpur Civil Hospital. This protest is not isolated; similar controversies have surfaced in the past over mosques in Sanjauli and Mandi, where Hindu groups objected to the construction of Islamic places of worship.
The latest demand for demolition has stoked fear and anger within the local Muslim community. Many feel that the protests are part of a larger campaign to undermine their right to practice their faith freely.
A local Muslim resident, who frequents the Nurpur Jamia Masjid, voiced frustration, saying, “First it was Sanjauli, now it’s our mosque. We’re being unfairly targeted.” Ali Ahmed, another community member, echoed his concern, calling it an attack on their religious rights: “We’re being criminalized for following our faith.”
Others, like Imran, a local shopkeeper, believe the protests are fueled by growing Islamophobia. “This isn’t just about a mosque; it’s about erasing our identity,” he said. “We’ve lived here for generations. Now, we’re being told we have no right to build our places of worship. This is a violation of our rights.”
