The Uttar Pradesh administration on Wednesday launched demolition drives against alleged illegal madrassas and mosque structures in several districts, including Ghaziabad, Varanasi and Baghpat, triggering concern among local residents and religious groups.
In Ghaziabad’s Dasna area, authorities used bulldozers to demolish Madrasa Arabia Islam. Similar action was carried out in Varanasi, where officials demolished a nearly 200-year-old mosque late at night. According to reports, the demolition was completed within 22 minutes.
Mosque and Madrassa Structures Demolished in Baghpat
Another demolition drive took place in Bopura village under Baraut tehsil in Baghpat district, where authorities razed parts of a mosque and madrassa building using bulldozers.
Officials said the action was taken after a complaint was received regarding alleged illegal construction at Masjid and Madrasa Islamia Sabeelul Falah.
A joint team of the revenue and police departments conducted an investigation and reportedly found that the construction work was being carried out without the required administrative permissions and statutory documents.
Administration Cites Lack of Permission
According to officials, the demolition was conducted on the instructions of District Magistrate Asmita Lal. Administrative and police officers remained present during the operation.
The administration claimed that the structures were removed in accordance with legal procedures after finding irregularities in the construction process.
Officials also warned local residents and management committees against carrying out any future construction work without approval from the competent authority.
