A large-scale demolition drive in the Dalmandi area of Varanasi has triggered concern among local residents after hundreds of homes and several religious structures came under the administration’s road widening project.
Dalmandi, a Muslim-majority locality known for its narrow lanes and old buildings, has witnessed continuous bulldozer action in recent days as authorities move ahead with an ambitious widening plan. Residents say many families have become homeless and are now struggling with livelihood issues after their houses and shops were demolished.
According to officials from the Public Works Department (PWD), at least 107 houses have already been razed during the ongoing operation. Authorities said the remaining structures identified for removal will also be cleared soon.
The administration aims to complete the demolition work by May 31 so that the road widening project can move forward on schedule.
Six Mosques Under Demolition Plan
The issue has become more sensitive after reports emerged that six old mosques in the area are also likely to be removed as part of the widening project.
The mosques reportedly identified by the administration include Mirza Karimullah Beg Mosque, Marble Wali Masjid, Ali Raza Khan Mosque, Nisaran Mosque, Rangeele Shah Mosque and Langde Hafiz Mosque located around the Chowk police station area.
The move has created anxiety and anger among many residents and social organisations, who have described the action as an attack on minority religious places in the name of development.
Administration Offers Compensation and Relocation
Officials said special arrangements are being planned regarding the affected mosques. According to the administration, compensation will be provided if ownership documents establish that the land belongs to the Waqf Board.
Authorities also stated that if ownership rights are unclear, the government may arrange for relocation of the mosques under rules related to the shifting of religious places.
So far, officials said compensation has been given to 43 affected people during the ongoing demolition drive.
The administration has deployed three bulldozers and more than 100 labourers in the area daily to speed up the work.
Officials claim the entire operation is being carried out to reduce congestion, improve traffic movement and modernise the area’s infrastructure.
Locals Raise Concerns Over Historical Mosques
The proposed removal of old mosques has drawn strong reactions from local residents and caretakers associated with the religious sites.
Babu Jaan, the muezzin of the Karimullah Beg Mosque, said the administration would receive cooperation if all legal procedures are properly followed.
“If there is any legal process, then the administration will be supported in it, but if any unconstitutional step is taken then it will also be strongly opposed,” he said.
He added that the Karimullah Beg Mosque is around 226 years old and holds historical significance in the area.
“According to us, if it is considered necessary to remove the mosque, then it should be established respectfully at another place,” he said.
Development Drive Sparks Debate
The Dalmandi demolition drive has once again sparked debate over urban development projects and their impact on old neighbourhoods and religious structures.
While the administration maintains that the widening project is necessary for public infrastructure and traffic management, many residents fear the loss of homes, businesses and heritage sites that have existed in the locality for generations.
The situation continues to remain tense as demolition work progresses in the crowded market area.
