Muslims stage protest against sealing of mosque in Thano

By Arun Pratap SinghGarhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 5 Jun: Members of Muslim Seva Sangathan today staged a protest march to the District Magistrate’s office against the sealing of a mosque in Thano, questioning the administration’s action. Angered by the recent sealing of the mosque, members of the organisation mobilised the Muslim community and gathered outside the STF office before proceeding to the DM office. The organisation has alleged that despite possessing all necessary documents, the mosque was sealed, prompting the deployment of heavy police force to maintain order.
It may be recalled that the Jama Masjid and madrasa located in Kandogal and Kudiyal villages of Thano were sealed by the Mussoorie-Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA) in the presence of the police and administrative officials amid strong opposition from the mosque committee. Complaints against the mosque had earlier been lodged by the local residents with the administration and MDDA, with groups such as Kali Sena and Bajrang Dal also demanding action. These organisations had staged several demonstrations in Thano demanding action against the mosque.
It may be recalled that the first floor of the mosque was sealed by MDDA on 17 December last year while the ground floor was sealed a few days ago. Kali Sena, Bajrang Dal and local residents allege that the mosque is not registered with the Uttarakhand Waqf Board or the Madrasa Board. These allegations were reportedly confirmed in departmental inquiries conducted in this case. Consequently, the ground floor and later the first floor were sealed. Meanwhile the locals and some organisations have demanded that the mosque built in violation of rules, be demolished at the earliest.
The incident has intensified tensions in the area, with the administration maintaining strict security arrangements to prevent any untoward situation. All eyes are now on the next steps to be taken by the authorities in response to the escalating demands and protests.