Mosque Portion Demolished in UP Over Land Dispute

Authorities in Kushinagar district, Uttar Pradesh, demolished a portion of the Madni Masjid, alleged to be built on encroached government land, Times of India reported. The demolition occurred after the Allahabad High Court’s stay order expired on Sunday.

The action followed a complaint by activist Ram Bachan Singh, who claimed the mosque was constructed on public land. Despite the mosque committee’s assertion of legal ownership, the structure was deemed unauthorized after an official inquiry revealed a lack of valid documentation.

The mosque’s caretaker defended the community’s claim, stating that they purchased 32 decimals of land for the mosque’s construction 15 years ago. The dispute dates back to a 1999 complaint, but no action was taken until recent inquiries prompted the municipal administration to issue notices to the mosque committee. With the court’s stay expired, authorities swiftly proceeded with the demolition on Monday, amid heavy security presence.