Authorities demolish 18 bigha site in Khairabad area citing unauthorised plotting; officials defend move as lawful, while locals seek fair, transparent enforcement of rules
SITAPUR — A fresh bulldozer action in Uttar Pradesh has once again drawn attention after authorities demolished alleged illegal plotting spread over 18 bighas of land in Sitapur district, in a case linked to two Muslim individuals.
According to officials, the action was carried out against plots associated with Wasi Ahmed and Ehsan Ali in the Khairabad area. The administration claimed that the land was being developed without proper approval and in violation of rules.
The demolition took place on Monday under the supervision of City Magistrate Meenakshi Pandey. A heavy police force was deployed at the site to prevent any untoward situation.
Officials said the action followed an inquiry in which the plotting was declared unauthorised. Using bulldozers, the administration removed internal roads and entry gates built on the land.
An official at the site said, “No plotting or construction will be allowed without permission. Strict action will be taken against anyone violating the rules.”
The land in question is located in Laliyapur area on Tikriya Road under Khairabad police station limits. Authorities stated that around 18 bighas were being divided into plots without an approved layout plan.
However, the action has raised concern among residents, especially within the Muslim community, who feel such demolitions are being noticed more when Muslim names are involved.
A resident, requesting anonymity, said, “We are not against action if something is illegal, but the law should be equal for everyone. There is a feeling that such actions are more visible when Muslims are involved.”
Another resident said, “People invest their life savings in land. Before demolition, there should be a clear notice and proper time given so that they can respond.”
Officials, on their part, maintained that due process was followed. City Magistrate Meenakshi Pandey said, “Clear instructions have already been issued. Any construction, reconstruction, or expansion requires prior written permission from the concerned authority.”
She added, “This rule applies to houses, shops, schools, factories and all types of construction. Those who do not follow the rules will face legal action.”
The administration has also warned land sellers not to divide and sell land into smaller plots without approval. Buyers have been advised to verify documents before purchasing land.
“People must check whether the layout is approved. Otherwise, they may face problems later,” an official said.
The Sitapur administration has recently taken a strict stand on land-related violations and has issued guidelines for areas falling under regulated zones, including municipal limits and dozens of nearby villages.
While officials insist that the action is purely based on rules, the incident has again started a wider discussion about fairness and equal application of law, especially in cases that involve minority communities.
