Devbhoomi Sangharsh Samiti to Stage Statewide Protest on September 28 Against Illegal Mosque in Sanjauli
- HIMACHALRELIGIONSHIMLA
- September 23, 2024
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Devbhoomi Sangharsh Samiti to Stage Statewide Protest on September 28 Against Illegal Mosque in Sanjauli
The Devbhoomi Sangharsh Samiti, a collective formed to address the issue of illegal religious encroachments, has announced a statewide peaceful protest outside the district headquarters on September 28, concerning the illegal mosque in Sanjauli. This announcement was made by Bharat Bhushan, the convener of the Samiti, during a press conference held in Shimla. Bhushan emphasized that the protest aims to send a strong message to both the government and the administration, showing that the community is not silent on this issue. He clarified that the Samiti would welcome any decision in the interest of the people of Himachal Pradesh regarding the Sanjauli mosque but would continue its struggle until the illegal encroachment is removed if the outcome is not favorable.
To organize and strengthen the movement, Devbhoomi Sangharsh Samiti has established 26 units across various tehsil levels. For the first time, the community has united to stand up for this cause. Bharat Bhushan urged all Gram Panchayats in the state to take strict action against illegal immigrants. He called on every Panchayat to pass a resolution in their Gram Sabha meeting scheduled for October 2, stating that no illegal individuals would be allowed to settle in their respective Panchayats. Additionally, he emphasized that anyone selling goods in the villages should undergo thorough verification, and their time in the area should be regulated. He warned that individuals from a particular community, under the guise of selling clothes or other goods, are engaging in criminal activities, including luring away innocent women and daughters from villages.
Bhushan also revealed a concerning statistic: in the past year, over 300 women have been reported missing from Himachal Pradesh. He linked this to the growing population of Bangladeshi and Rohingya immigrants, who he claimed are settling in the state under the pretext of running businesses. He accused these groups of orchestrating a land encroachment conspiracy, particularly under the guise of constructing mosques, shrines, and cemeteries.
The Samiti has made it clear that if the decision regarding the illegal Sanjauli mosque, expected by October 5, does not favor the interests of the people of Himachal Pradesh, they will escalate their movement by launching a statewide “Jail Bharo Andolan” (Fill the Jails movement). The growing resentment within the community regarding illegal mosques and undocumented migrants is becoming increasingly evident, with protests erupting in various parts of the state. Bharat Bhushan stated that since the movement began on September 1, demonstrations have taken place at 28 locations across Himachal Pradesh. This movement is unprecedented in the state’s history, as it is not led by any single leader, political party, or organization.
The protests reflect widespread discontent with what the Samiti sees as a failure by the authorities to address illegal religious and demographic changes in the region. The group’s call to action has resonated with citizens across the state, drawing attention to their concerns about illegal settlements, particularly those allegedly linked to foreign nationals. The movement is also notable for its grassroots nature, with no centralized leadership or political affiliation driving the protests.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on the decision regarding the Sanjauli mosque, which could either ease or escalate tensions in the region. The Devbhoomi Sangharsh Samiti is determined to continue its protests until they see concrete actions taken to address their concerns about illegal encroachments and the growing population of immigrants in the state. The Samiti’s demand for stricter verification and surveillance of individuals entering villages and engaging in trade underscores a broader concern about safety and demographic changes in the region.
With mounting protests and increasing public support, the movement is poised to become a significant force in the region’s political and social landscape. The coming days, especially with the looming October 5 decision, will be crucial in determining the next phase of the movement and the potential for widespread civil disobedience through the proposed Jail Bharo Andolan.
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