The construction of a mosque in Jamalpur Kalan near Haridwar has become a contentious issue, drawing objections from local Hindu organisations. These groups allege that fundamentalist elements took advantage of the administration’s focus on local elections to expedite what they claim is an illegal construction.
The construction, reportedly undertaken without the necessary permissions, quickly triggered a backlash from Hindu groups.
Amit Multanian, a leader from a Hindu organisation, formally lodged a complaint with the Haridwar-Roorkee Development Authority (HRDA). Anshul Singh, the Vice President of HRDA, confirmed that the construction was unauthorized following an investigation.
“A complaint was received from Bajrang Dal regarding illegal construction. Our engineers investigated the site and found the complaint to be valid. The building was sealed, and a notice has been issued to the responsible parties,” Singh stated.
The groups said that the construction violates Supreme Court mandates, which require prior approval from the District Magistrate (DM) or relevant authorities for any religious construction or repairs.
They allege that the mosque in question did not receive such approval and the original structure, referred to as a “Kachchi Masjid,” was built on government land.
This case follows a similar incident earlier in Haridwar, where a mosque gate was constructed in the Jwalapur area during a by-election. The structure was demolished after the election results were announced.
Local Hindu organisations have expressed outrage over the growing trend of illegal constructions, including mosques, tombs, and madrasas, in Haridwar. These groups have called for the Haridwar Kumbh area to be declared a “Sanatan zone”. Shri Ganga Sabha, a prominent religious body in the region, continues to push for stricter enforcement of these regulations.
