Nagpur: The 97-year-old iconic Muslim Library in Mominpura, a symbol of Muslim heritage and knowledge, was demolished over the past two days to make way for a new ultra-modern e-library. On Wednesday, Union Minister and Nagpur MP Nitin Gadkari inaugurated the groundbreaking ceremony for the new facility on the 13,000 sq. ft. site, as dignitaries gathered to witness the transformation.
The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) had sealed the library in 2022, citing a lease expiration after 93 years of operation. Erected in 1927, the library served as a hub for Muslims for decades. The NMC has announced a Rs. 20 crore project for the construction of a state-of-the-art e-library, with funds approved by the state government. Awarded to architect Ashok Mokha, the project dubbed “APJ Abdul Kalam Student Library Mominpura,” has sparked discontent among local residents, who feel sidelined in the decision-making process.
The demolition raised concerns about the loss of history. Many questioned the fate of over 2,000 Urdu books, many of which were already damaged or lost to termites. Trust members expressed hope that the new facility would benefit local students but lamented the lack of community input in the development process.
Dr. Sarfaraz Ahmed, the trust secretary, thanked local leaders for securing the funds, emphasizing the importance of timely construction and continued community involvement in the management of the new e-library.
