Haridwar, Uttarakhand: The construction of a mosque in the Laksar area of Haridwar district has been temporarily paused following a dispute over the height of its minarets. The mosque, which was nearing completion, drew objections from certain local Hindu groups who claimed the structure’s minarets—reportedly around 250 feet tall—exceeded permissible height limits set by municipal construction norms, reported the Madhyamam.
Local authorities responded by initiating a review of the project’s adherence to building regulations. While the Haridwar police clarified that no official stop-work order was issued, the mosque committee itself decided to voluntarily pause construction in an effort to prevent tensions and ensure that the project fully complies with local laws.
A mosque official told Muslim Mirror, “We are cooperating with the authorities and have paused the work temporarily. Once the necessary documents are reviewed and permissions granted, we will resume construction.”
The incident highlights a broader concern in Uttarakhand, where the BJP-led state government has launched a controversial campaign targeting what it calls “illegal mazars” (shrines). The drive has reportedly scrutinized over 500 such religious structures across the state, sparking criticism from opposition parties and civil rights groups who allege it selectively targets minority communities under the guise of legal enforcement.
Although the mosque in Laksar has not been labeled illegal, the issue has reignited debates around religious freedom, minority rights, and the consistent application of construction laws. The local administration maintains that the dispute is technical, not religious, and applies equally to all faiths.
Community leaders and human rights advocates, however, warn that such incidents—if not handled sensitively—can exacerbate communal tensions and erode trust in public institutions.
Further developments are expected once the mosque committee resubmits its architectural documents and receives the green light from the authorities to continue the project.
