In Maharajganj of Barahaich where communal violence erupted during Durga-idol immersion, the PWD issued a notice on October 17 to “target and bulldoze” the houses of murder accused Abdul Hamid, and 23 other Muslims. There are also some shops included in the list.
On the notice glued on the property of Abdul Hamid, whose sons were recently wounded in a police encounter, the administration asked him to present the “copy of registration” to prove if it’s constructed with “departmental permission”.
The properties belonging to the Muslim community have been marked for identification and those targeted have already started vacating their houses and transferring their belongings to keep safe.
On the other hand, all the responsible male members of Hamid’s family are behind bars as the police arrested Abdul Hamid, his two sons, Sarfaraz and Faheem along with his son-in-law and some other Muslim men. Ladies left behind have not overcome the shock and disappointment after whatever happened.
Will Be Charged For Bulldozing Their Houses
“We inform you that if this construction is made with the permission of District Magistrate of Bahraich or prior departmental permission, please present the copy of registration or raze the illegal construction within 3 days” the notice on the house of Abdul Hamid read.
It also said that if they don’t raze their houses by themselves the police and administration will take strict action and will attain financial charges for bulldozing their homes via revenue.
The notice described that the copies had been sent to the District Magistrate, Deputy District Magistrate, Police Station officer and the other concerned officers.
Several Properties Already Damaged During The Riots
Since the communal riots stirred up in the city, the Muslim community has witnessed polarised action against them.
A document currently circulating on social media listed some victims who filed complaints about mobs damaging their properties during the riots. Surprisingly, all mentioned names belong to the Muslim community and no action has been taken against hooliganism.
Muslims have also reported about their belongings being harmed amid communal eruptions. Their houses, bikes and household items have also been viciously looted and destroyed in between and some houses are being forcefully vacated in the process.
They have said that the houses of Muslims can not be demolished on the basis of “accusation or punishment” as the SC order against demolition drives can challenge the “bulldozer action” in the court through PIL.
The Muslim residents of Maharajganj, Bahraich are currently disappointed amid attempting to vacate their properties and finding solutions to stop the arbitrary police action.
