The King George’s Medical University (KGMU) in Lucknow has declared six mazars (shrines) on its campus as “unclaimed” and is preparing for their removal after the expiry of a 15-day ultimatum. The decision comes after repeated notices issued by the university failed to produce any valid ownership or management documents.
“No valid documents submitted,” says KGMU
According to the KGMU administration, notices were issued twice in line with Supreme Court guidelines, asking individuals or organisations to submit proof of ownership or legal authority over the structures. However, no recognised entity or person came forward with valid documentation.
KGMU spokesperson Prof. K.K. Singh said, “Only one Mazar’s representative responded to the notice, but even that person failed to produce any valid documents.”
The administration has now formally declared the six structures unclaimed and initiated the process for their removal.
Two mazars considered valid, six declared unclaimed
The university committee identified a total of eight mazars during an internal inspection of the campus. While two of them were found to have some form of documentation and were considered valid, the remaining six were declared unauthorised.
Officials said multiple rounds of notice were issued, including public announcements, written communication, and direct outreach, but no ownership claim was established.
Demolition plan and police deployment request
Following the conclusion of the notice period, the university has sent a report to the registrar seeking approval for removal of the structures. The administration has also requested police deployment to ensure law and order during the demolition process.
Officials said the mazars will be shifted to a designated burial site or cemetery before any demolition activity begins, in accordance with legal procedures.
A senior official said, “Once police support is provided, the removal process will begin. If anyone tries to obstruct the action, legal steps will be taken.”
Encroachment concerns and campus safety argument
The KGMU committee reportedly found that the structures were built on encroached land and were causing obstruction to the movement of patients and medical staff inside the hospital campus.
The inspection process began in September 2024, after Supreme Court guidelines were issued regarding safety and infrastructure management in public institutions, particularly concerning women healthcare workers.
The administration maintained that ensuring safe and obstruction-free access for patients was a key reason behind the action.
Officials also recalled that earlier attempts to remove one structure had led to protests and clashes on campus. Following that incident, the administration decided to proceed strictly under legal procedures and with proper notice.
Government and legal process involvement
The university has informed the Uttar Pradesh government and district administration about the development. Approval for police assistance has also been sought to carry out the operation smoothly.
Authorities said the action is being taken in compliance with Supreme Court directions and after following due process, including multiple notices and opportunity for claims.
