SAMBHAL — The demolition of a decades-old Eidgah and Imambara in Vichholi village of Sambhal district has left many Muslim residents shocked and anxious, as bulldozer operations continue across parts of the district.
According to officials, the structures were removed on April 16 after the administration declared them to be built on government land. However, villagers say the sites had been in use for many years for religious and community purposes.
A large administrative team, accompanied by police, Rapid Action Force, and Provincial Armed Constabulary personnel, reached the village early in the morning. Within a few hours, both the Eidgah and Imambara were demolished.
A local resident who witnessed the operation said, “We were not expecting this. These places have been part of our lives for years. People are scared and unsure about what might happen next.”
Another villager added, “Even if there was an issue, there should have been more discussion. Suddenly bringing bulldozers creates panic.”
Nidhi Patel, Sub-District Magistrate of Sambhal Tehsil, said the action was taken after an official inquiry.
She stated, “The Revenue Department conducted an investigation and found that the land belonged to the government and was reserved for public use. The construction was done without permission. A legal order was issued for removal, and no appeals were filed.”
Officials also said the land was meant for purposes such as manure pits and grazing, and that the action followed legal procedures.
This is not the first such incident in Sambhal this year. On April 5, in Mubarakpur Band village, the administration demolished a mosque, a madrasa, shops, and other structures, citing similar reasons of illegal occupation.
Reports suggest that in that operation, land spread over around four bighas was cleared. Among the demolished structures were the Gausul Madrasa, a mosque, five shops, and two primary school buildings.
Residents in these areas have expressed concern that most of the actions are taking place in Muslim-majority localities.
A community member said, “People feel that only certain areas are being targeted. This has created fear among families, especially the poor.”
Earlier this year, in January, residents in Salempur Salar village reportedly demolished parts of a mosque themselves after hearing about possible administrative action. Another mosque in the same area was later removed by authorities.
In Raya Buzurg village, a mosque was also demolished after being declared illegal. On February 12, a madrasa in Chandausi block was brought down using bulldozers.
Locals said many children from poor families studied at the madrasa.
One resident remarked, “These institutions were important for education and community life. Their loss affects the most vulnerable.”
The repeated use of bulldozers has created unease in several villages. Many families now fear that their homes, shops, or religious places could be next.
A shopkeeper from the area said, “People are living under stress. No one knows which place will be marked next.”
Community members have also raised concerns about the sudden nature of the operations and the heavy police presence during demolitions.
While the administration maintains that all actions are based on legal findings, residents are asking for more transparency and communication.
Some locals believe that better dialogue could reduce tension and help avoid sudden actions.
A senior resident said, “Law should be followed, but people should also be heard. There should be time to respond and explain.”
The situation in Sambhal shows a growing gap between administrative action and community trust. While officials continue to defend the demolitions as lawful, many residents feel unsettled and unheard.
As bulldozer operations continue, the need for clear communication, a fair process, and sensitivity toward community concerns remains important for maintaining peace and confidence among all residents.
