Shimla, September 6, 2024:
Himachal Pradesh’s Minister of Rural Development, Anirudh Singh, has made alarming claims about illegal migration and unauthorized construction in the state. Speaking in the Assembly on Wednesday, Singh expressed concerns over the influx of migrants, suggesting they could be Rohingyas or individuals from Bangladesh.
Concerns Over Migrants and Street Vendors
“What kind of situation is developing in the state? New individuals are arriving daily. People associated with Jamaat are coming in, and we don’t know their origins. Are they Rohingyas? I personally know a few who have come from Bangladesh. They should be verified,” Singh stated in his address.
The minister also highlighted issues with street vending, noting a significant discrepancy in the number of registered vendors versus those operating. “Currently, 190 vendors are registered, but the number has swelled to 1,900. Markets are overcrowded, leaving little space for people to walk. We need to review these permits and ensure they are issued only to genuine residents,” Singh added.
Allegations Against Sanjauli Masjid
Singh called for an investigation into the construction of the Sanjauli Masjid, alleging that it was built illegally. He questioned whether the mosque had received proper approval before construction began. “They started building the mosque without authorization. Initially, one floor was constructed, followed by additional floors. This matter needs a thorough investigation,” he said. “The mosque, now five stories tall, reflects a pattern of illegal activity.”
The minister also raised concerns about rising thefts and social issues in the Sanjauli market area, including what he described as “love jihad,” which he said poses a threat to the state’s social fabric.
Congress MLA’s Response
Congress MLA Harish Janartha contested Singh’s claims, stating that the mosque was originally built before 1960, with additional stories added illegally in 2010 on land owned by the Waqf Board. Singh countered this by asserting that the construction of the additional floors began in 2010, with significant progress made by 2019. “The case was ongoing in 2010, yet by 2019, four additional floors were constructed. Where was the administration? Why wasn’t it demolished?” Singh demanded.
Street Vendor Licenses and Migration
Singh criticized the practice of unauthorized migrants obtaining street vending licenses and subsequently using legal claims to resist removal. He urged for stricter regulations and a law to reserve street vending permits exclusively for bona fide Himachali residents. “The government must ensure proper verification of individuals entering Himachal Pradesh. Implementing a law to reserve vending permits for local residents will help protect local businesses and ensure fairness,” Singh concluded.
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