Shmila: In Himachal Pradesh, a significant movement is underway to dismantle illegal Islamic structures. The issue first gained attention in the Sanjauli area of Shimla, where a mosque had encroached on public land. After intense public pressure, the mosque committee itself agreed to demolish the encroached portion. Following this, attention shifted to Mandi, where a three-story mosque had two of its floors declared illegal by the court. In response, trade unions across Himachal Pradesh called for a bandh on Saturday, September 14, 2024.
Hindutva Terrorists on the prowl in Himachal Pradesh. pic.twitter.com/Am5lxmJfM9
— Team Saath Official???? (@TeamSaath) September 14, 2024
The bandh, which had widespread public support, resulted in the closure of shops from Mandi to Manali. Organized by Hindu groups, the protest saw the participation of many citizens. Despite the peaceful nature of the protest, the Congress-led Himachal Pradesh government responded with force, using tear gas and lathi charges against the demonstrators. Meanwhile, Congress minister Anirudh Singh raised concerns in the assembly, stating that external Jamaat members were coming into the state, engaging in illegal activities, and changing the demographic balance.
हिमाचल प्रदेश में शिमला में मस्जिद शहीद करने के लिए हथियार लेकर निकलना एक गंभीर और खतरनाक कदम है। क्या ये आतंकवाद की श्रेणी में नहीं आता? क्या कांग्रेस सरकार मुसलमानों के नरसंहार का इंतजार कर रही है? #StopHate #ProtectMinorities #JusticeForAll #ReligiousFreedom #NoToViolence… pic.twitter.com/eP8RqTrzGz
— Gulam Abdul Qadir ( Allahabadi ) (@ShaikhQadir786) September 13, 2024
A video circulated on social media showed Hindus waving swords and dancing to music, which some used to portray them as violent. ‘Team Saath’ labeled the participants as "Hindutva terrorists" and claimed they were arming themselves against mosques. Social media figures like Rafiqul Islam and Ghulam Abdul Qadir Allahabadi condemned the scene, calling for police action and alleging that these actions could lead to violence against Muslims. Neha Habib also criticized the Congress government for allowing such displays of weaponry, referencing the "Mohabbat Ki Dukan" campaign as a counterpoint.
However, the truth behind the video paints a different picture. The footage captures a traditional festival known as ‘Jag,’ a cultural celebration observed in Himachal Pradesh for decades. Held every year during the month of Bhadrapad, this festival symbolizes the mythical war between gods and demons. Rituals include walking on fire and prayers for peace and prosperity. The festival, especially prominent in the Mahakali temple in Mandi, has been celebrated for many years. In some regions like Jubbal and Rohru, dancing with weapons is an integral part of these traditional events. Misrepresentation of this cultural event is being used to falsely depict Hindus as violent, while in reality, they are peacefully protesting against illegal encroachment despite facing police force.
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