Sambhal, November 12: A demolition drive against a mosque allegedly constructed on land designated for public use began on Thursday in Kutubpur Satta village, under the Asmoli area of Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal district. The operation is being carried out by a joint team of the police and revenue department following an order issued by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate. A large police force has been deployed at the site to prevent any untoward incident.
According to police, the mosque was constructed on approximately 130 square metres of public land. Circle Officer of Asmoli, Aman Singh, said local residents had informed the police and revenue department about the construction more than a month ago.
Action Following Complaints from Local Residents
According to Circle Officer Aman Singh, local residents had lodged complaints with the concerned authorities alleging that a mosque was being constructed on land reserved for public purposes. Following the complaints, officials from the police and revenue department jointly inspected the site.
The administration said the construction was found to be in violation of applicable rules during the inspection. An administrative inquiry was subsequently conducted. Based on its findings, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Sambhal declared the construction illegal and issued an order for its demolition.
Police Personnel from 10 Police Stations Deployed
The administration has put in place extensive security arrangements to ensure that the demolition drive is carried out peacefully and law and order are maintained.
Officers-in-charge from four police stations, personnel from 10 police stations and one platoon of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) have been deployed at the site. Police personnel have also been positioned on the rooftops of nearby houses as a precautionary measure.
The entire area is being monitored with the help of drones. Police have maintained heightened vigilance to prevent any untoward incident during the operation.
Demolition Process Underway
The demolition process is continuing in the presence of revenue department officials and police personnel, in accordance with the administrative order. Security forces will remain deployed at the site until the operation is completed.
Administrative sources said the law and order situation in the area would continue to be monitored even after the demolition.
