Wave of demolition of mosques and Islamic centers in Uttar Pradesh, India

According to the Taghrib News Agency, local authorities claim that the demolished buildings were deemed illegal due to violations of land laws, construction regulations, or lack of legal permits. During these operations, bulldozers have been used to demolish religious sites and Islamic educational centers.

In Ghaziabad, particularly in the Dasna area, an Arabic Islamic school was demolished within the framework of what the state government calls a "campaign against illegal encroachments and law enforcement."

Officials announced that this action was taken after reviewing the records and legal status of the center, and that all steps were carried out in accordance with legal regulations and administrative orders.

Simultaneously with the operations, security forces were deployed extensively at the sites to prevent tensions and disruption of public order.

In Varanasi (Benares) as well, authorities demolished the historic "Ajghi Shahid" mosque, which is nearly 200 years old, in the Rajghat area during a nighttime operation. This action was carried out as part of the development and redevelopment plan of the "Kashi Model" railway station.

Government officials claim that this mosque was built on land belonging to the railway authority, and that necessary legal notices were issued to its officials before executing the order. Reports also indicate that the demolition operation was carried out after a court ruling and judicial authorization.

However, members of the local Muslim community emphasize the historical and religious value of this mosque and the adjacent cemetery, stating that the complex dates back about two centuries. This has heightened criticism of the process of demolishing this historical structure.