Uttar Pradesh: The district administration commenced the demolition of the Madni Mosque on Sunday, following the expiration of a high court stay order, officials confirmed.
The demolition operation, which began at 10 AM, was carried out under heavy security, with bulldozers dismantling the three-storey structure. The process was initiated after the court’s stay order lapsed on February 8.
Senior district officials, including Circle Officer Kundan Singh and Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Yogeshwar Singh, were present at the site, accompanied by a strong police contingent to ensure law and order. The surrounding area was sealed off, and additional security measures were put in place to prevent any disruptions.
"I am here to maintain law and order; the rest of the action is being carried out through legal means," SDM Singh stated.
The dispute over the mosque dates back to 1999, when local leader Ram Bachchan Singh filed a complaint alleging that the structure was built illegally. However, no action was taken at the time. The issue resurfaced in December 2023, prompting an official inquiry. Following the investigation, the municipal administration issued three notices to the mosque committee, requesting legal documentation. District officials claim that no valid papers were provided, leading to the structure being declared unauthorized.
Haji Hamid, chief organizer of the Madni Masjid Committee, refuted the allegations, asserting that the mosque was built on legally acquired land. "The administration is taking unilateral action without considering our claims. We will challenge this in court," he stated.
The mosque committee had sought legal recourse, leading to a temporary stay order from the high court. However, with its expiration on February 8, the authorities proceeded with the demolition, which is expected to continue into the night.
(Published from a syndicated news agency feed – PTI)
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