Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh: The Gorakhpur Development Authority (GDA) has issued a demolition order for a mosque in the Mewatipur area, citing the absence of necessary map approval. The order, dated February 15, directed mosque representative Shuaib Ahmed to dismantle the structure within 15 days, failing which authorities would proceed with the demolition and recover the costs.
The mosque was constructed a year ago on land allocated by the municipal corporation after the previous Abu Hurera Mosque was demolished on January 25, 2024, along with nearby houses and shops. The old mosque, which had stood near Ghosh Company Chowk for decades, was cleared to make way for a multi-level parking facility, despite a 1967 civil court settlement ensuring non-interference.
Following protests, a new 24 x 26 feet site was allocated for the mosque, which was rebuilt under the supervision of Suhail Ahmed, who passed away last year. His son, Shuaib Ahmed, now oversees its affairs.
The first official notice regarding the new mosque’s legality was issued on May 16, 2024, under the Uttar Pradesh Town Planning and Development Act of 1973. The GDA alleged that construction proceeded without approval while the second floor was being prepared. Authorities claim that Shuaib Ahmed failed to present the required documents during hearings, leading to the demolition order.
However, mosque representatives reject these claims, asserting they responded to every notice and provided documents, including the civil court decree, Suhail Ahmed’s death certificate, and a municipal resolution supporting construction. Shuaib Ahmed maintains that his late father had inquired about approval requirements and was informed that structures on plots under 100 square meters did not require map approval, per a 2008 urban development directive.
Legal representatives have appealed the demolition order, with a hearing set for February 25. Meanwhile, Congress leader Vishwa Vijay Singh and other political figures have condemned the move, alleging it is politically motivated and aimed at stirring communal discord.
The issue of mosque demolitions in Uttar Pradesh has gained national attention. On February 9, the Madni Masjid in Hata, Kushinagar, was demolished under similar allegations. The Supreme Court has since issued a contempt notice to the Kushinagar district magistrate for violating its November 2024 ruling, which mandated due process before demolition.
As the legal battle over the Gorakhpur mosque unfolds, the community awaits the commissioner’s decision, hoping for a resolution that upholds justice and communal harmony.
