Tensions flare in Mandi as Hindu outfits protest against 'illegal' mosque construction

In a dramatic escalation of tensions, a large-scale protest by Hindu outfits erupted here today. The mebmbers of these outfits held a protest march against the alleged illegal construction of a mosque on Jail Road in Mandi. Despite a ban on public gatherings, demonstrators converged on the area, leading to clashes.

The protest began early in the morning with participants rallying in several key locations throughout the town, including Seri Manch, Chauhata Bazaar near the MC office and the disputed mosque site. The district administration had imposed Section 163 of the BNS, restricting public gatherings to not more than five people, but the crowd defied these restrictions.

As the protesters reached the mosque site, they attempted to push police barricades. In response, the police used water cannons to disperse the crowd, which had gathered for over an hour, demanding the demolition of the mosque. Despite attempts by some protesters to climb the barricades, police managed to contain the situation and prevent further escalation.

Mandi Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan intervened to address the crowd, assuring them that legal proceedings regarding the mosque's construction would be pursued diligently, adding that no one would be permitted to take the law into their own hands. Following this assurance, the protesters dispersed from the site.

Local authorities have heightened the vigilance, with barricades set up at various entry points into the town and a strong police presence around the contested area. The district administration's efforts to enforce restrictions have faced significant challenges, highlighting the intensity of the ongoing legal and social dispute.

In a related development, the court of Director Town and Country Planning-cum-Mandi MC Commissioner HS Rana has ordered the demolition of the disputed mosque structure within 30 days, marking a critical juncture in the ongoing legal battle.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to prevent further breaches of public order, as tensions remain high in Mandi.