Sitapur (UP) : Authorities in Uttar Pradesh’s Sitapur district launched a bulldozer operation on Monday at the Miya Sarai intersection, demolishing several shops and a decades-old mazar.
The action, carried out under heavy police deployment, was ordered by District Magistrate Abhishek Anand. Tehsildar of Mahmudabad was also present during the demolition. Officials claimed that the mazar and shops were built on government land valued at around ₹2 crore, reported the Clarion India.
Additional District Magistrate Nitish Kumar Singh said, “This move was crucial to remove illegal encroachments that were standing for decades. Government land cannot be used illegally.”
The demolition has triggered deep concern among the Muslim community. Locals expressed disappointment, stating that the step was unnecessary and harsh. Many shopkeepers who lost their livelihoods said they now face an uncertain future. Some residents added that religious structures should be handled with sensitivity given their spiritual significance.
One local commented, “The government should have dealt with the issue in an efficient manner instead of taking such a step.”
Activists on social media highlighted that such swift demolitions often target Muslim religious sites across India, usually without proper legal proceedings. The incident has reignited debate over selective actions and the treatment of minority communities.
