In a major crackdown on illegal encroachments, authorities in Sambhajinagar on July 11 morning demolished an illegally constructed mazar and mosque-like structure near the city’s railway station. The action was carried out under tight security following a court order.
According to officials, the structure had an unusual origin, it was reportedly built over the burial site of a dog. Over time, the site was converted into a mazar (shrine), and later, a minaret-style mosque-like structure was added over it. The expansion and religious symbolism drew public attention. It later sparked debates on social media and complaints to the authorities.
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The matter eventually reached the court, where it was determined that the construction was unauthorised and located on government land belonging to the Railways. The court ordered the immediate removal of the structure, labelling it a case of unlawful encroachment.
Following the court’s direction, a team comprising local administration, railway officials, and a heavy police force arrived early in the morning. A bulldozer was used to flatten the entire structure. The operation was completed smoothly without any major resistance or untoward incident, thanks to strong security arrangements including RAF personnel.
Speaking to the media, Railway officials stated, “This land belongs to the Railways. Any illegal religious construction, regardless of faith or purpose, will not be tolerated. We are committed to protecting public property and ensuring law and order.”
The demolition has received mixed reactions. While many citizens welcomed the move as a necessary step to reclaim public land and uphold the law, some groups expressed concern and criticism. However, the district administration clarified that the entire action was conducted strictly under judicial supervision and legal procedure.
Statewide Campaign Against Illegal Encroachments
This is not an isolated case. Over the past few years, the Yogi government has intensified its campaign to identify and remove illegal religious structures: be it mazars, temples, or shrines that have come up without authorisation on government land, roadsides, public parks, or railway properties.
In 2022, the state issued clear directives to all district administrations to carry out surveys of such encroachments and take action as per legal provisions. A circular was also issued to ensure that no religious structure should come up on public land without due permissions, regardless of religious affiliations.
The government maintains that its policy is not directed at any one community but is instead focused on restoring the rule of law. In cities like Prayagraj, Kanpur, and Lucknow, several illegally constructed shrines both Hindu and Muslim have been removed in recent months after due legal procedures. Officials state that the aim is to ensure public spaces remain free from political or communal influence.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has repeatedly stated that “no one is above the law”, and his administration has made it clear that public property cannot be occupied in the name of religion. Addressing this issue, he had earlier remarked, “Encroachment is encroachment, no matter what form it takes. The law will take its course.”
In Uttar Pradesh, the bulldozer has emerged as a symbol of the government’s resolve to take tough action against mafias, encroachers, and those misusing religious sentiments to grab land. As officials continue to survey and act upon other similar cases, it is clear that the state is moving towards stricter enforcement and more accountable governance, irrespective of public pressure or communal interpretations.
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