In a significant step toward protecting forest land and upholding the rule of law, the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department undertook an anti-encroachment drive in the Moortihan Forest Range of Bahraich district. On the night of June 8, bulldozers were used to remove four unauthorised mazars, including the popular Lakkad Shah Baba Mazar, which had been constructed illegally on government-owned forest land.
According to officials, these structures had been illegally built on forest land and had existed there since 1987. The Forest Department had earlier issued legal notices to those managing the mazars, warning them of the violation and requesting their voluntary removal. As there was no compliance, authorities moved forward with the demolition as part of their encroachment removal drive.
The Forest Department clarified that before any demolition took place, formal notices were served to the caretakers of the structures. These notices gave ample opportunity for the occupants to respond, remove the encroachments themselves, or provide evidence supporting their claim to the land. With no valid documentation or response justifying the construction, the department proceeded with the demolition in accordance with the law.
“The land in question is a notified forest area where any construction religious or otherwise is strictly prohibited under the Forest Conservation Act. These mazars had no legal sanction,” said a senior official from the Forest Department.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has consistently emphasised the importance of lawful governance, transparency, and protection of public and forest lands. His administration has launched several drives in recent years to clear encroachments, especially in eco-sensitive and government-owned areas, ensuring that development and conservation go hand in hand.
Officials noted that the demolition had no connection with any religious sentiment or bias. “The state government treats all religions equally, but illegal occupation of public land cannot be tolerated in the name of any faith. This is about restoring what belongs to the state and the people,” an official statement read.
This proactive governance reflects CM Yogi’s commitment to preserving the environment, maintaining law and order, and ensuring that no individual or group is above the law, regardless of social or religious identity.
Locals in Bahraich expressed mixed reactions to the move. While a section of the population, especially those with religious ties to the shrines, expressed emotional concerns, a larger portion of the community supported the government’s firm action.
Residents appreciated the administration’s efforts to reclaim forest land and prevent further illegal occupation, which often leads to deforestation and misuse of public property. “If the structures were truly illegal and built without permission, then the law must take its course. We cannot allow our forests to be taken over in the name of religion or tradition,” said Sunil Kumar, a local school teacher.
Others highlighted that legal rules must take precedence over religious sentiments. “While faith deserves respect, the law must be followed. If a structure is unauthorised, it should be removed, be it a temple, mosque, or mazar,” said Amina Begum, a social worker from Bahraich.
In anticipation of possible unrest, security arrangements were tightened around the area during and after the operation. However, the administration made sure the entire operation was carried out in a calm and orderly manner. Police personnel were deployed to maintain law and order, and no major incidents of violence or protest were reported.
Local authorities also engaged with community leaders and religious figures to maintain peace and mutual understanding, reassuring them that the move was not intended to target any particular religion but was part of a state-wide initiative against illegal encroachments.
The demolition of the four mazars in Bahraich, including the Lakkad Shah Baba shrine, is a clear example of how the Uttar Pradesh government is taking tough yet lawful decisions to protect its natural resources. By taking strict action against illegal encroachment, the Yogi Adityanath government has shown its strong commitment to law, fairness, and development. While people may have emotional reactions, following the law is most important for building a fair and strong society.
