Survey of Sambhal Graveyard Raises Demolition Fears Among Muslim Residents

Survey of Sambhal Graveyard Raises Demolition Fears Among Muslim Residents
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Tension has gripped Mohalla Kot in Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal district after the local administration issued notices to 22 houses and shops following a land survey near the historic Shahi Jama Masjid, Clarion India reported. The notices, linked to alleged illegal construction on land recorded as a graveyard, affect 48 people, most of them Muslim residents and small traders, who have been given 15 days to respond or face possible demolition.

Officials said a recent revenue survey found that several structures were built on graveyard land, prompting formal action. Residents, however, say many families have lived in the area for decades and accuse the administration of selective and hurried action. They argue that the threat of bulldozers has caused widespread fear, particularly among women and children.

The issue follows a decision by the Allahabad High Court, which declined to halt the survey process, stating that petitioners could raise objections during measurement and demarcation. The state maintained that the exercise was technical and did not affect ownership rights.

Local Muslim leaders have called for transparency, restraint, and sufficient time for residents to present documents, warning that demolition threats before proper hearings risk deepening mistrust and communal anxiety.