Varanasi: Muslim residents and traders in Dal Mandi are under growing pressure after a series of nighttime demolitions in their neighbourhood. Local authorities have targeted homes and shops for removal. Families now fear losing shelter and income as winter approaches.
Dal Mandi sits close to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It is a historic market known for Banarasi trade and shared community life. Muslim families have lived and worked here for generations. The sudden demolitions have unsettled the area. Residents said officials arrived at night and ordered people to leave. They reported threats and intimidation during evacuations.
Six houses have been demolished so far. More buildings have received notices to vacate. Traders warned that they will identify officials involved in the drive if the actions continue. Many said they have no alternate housing and no clarity on compensation.
Mohammad Shafi, who owns a shop in the market, said the demolitions threaten both home and livelihood. He said the actions place thousands of Muslim families at risk. Residents fear long stretches of winter without shelter.
Authorities said the demolitions are part of a road widening plan. The existing 3.5 metre road is planned to be expanded to 17.5 metres. Residents said the plan targets their community and erases a long standing cultural space. More than 190 homes and several shops have been marked for removal.
Local historians said Dal Mandi represents centuries of shared heritage. They warned that demolition of these structures weakens the cultural identity of Varanasi. Police remain deployed in the area due to rising tensions. Families continue to seek clarity from the government and have asked for development plans that do not ignore human impact.
