Union Minister Anurag Thakur has raised serious concerns over the ongoing construction of a mosque in the Sanjauli area of Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. Speaking at a public event, Thakur alleged that the Waqf Board has not provided any valid land ownership documents for the plot in question, thereby rendering the construction activity illegal. His statement has sparked a political and legal debate in the state.
According to Thakur, the Waqf Board — which oversees religious properties and institutions — has failed to produce official documentation proving its legal right to the land. “They have not shown any papers related to the ownership of the land. Construction without legal authority cannot be allowed to continue,” he said. He further called on the state administration to halt the construction until the matter is properly investigated and clarified through official channels.
The construction site in Sanjauli has drawn attention in recent weeks following local objections and concerns raised by residents and civic groups. Some locals have claimed that the area is not designated for religious use under the existing land use plan. Thakur's remarks have added a political dimension to the dispute, as he urged authorities to take action in line with the law and ensure that no unauthorized structures are permitted to proceed.
In response, the Waqf Board has stated that it has initiated the process to gather and submit the required documentation. A representative from the Board has reportedly claimed that the land has been in religious use for several years and that documentation delays are administrative in nature rather than an indication of illegal activity.
The Himachal Pradesh state government has yet to issue an official statement on the matter, but sources suggest that the district administration may soon conduct a site inspection and review the legal status of the property. Officials from the revenue and urban planning departments are expected to be involved in verifying ownership records and zoning compliance.
Legal experts say that disputes involving religious structures are often sensitive and require a balanced approach. “If proper documentation does not exist, construction should be paused until the legality is established. However, due process must be followed without bias,” said a senior advocate practicing in Shimla.
Opposition parties have criticized Anurag Thakur’s remarks as politically motivated, especially given the timing close to recent elections. They argue that such statements risk communal polarization and that the issue should be handled purely through administrative and legal procedures.
As the situation develops, all eyes are on the state government’s response and whether the construction work will be allowed to continue. The case highlights the ongoing challenges related to land ownership documentation and the role of religious boards in urban development.
