Demolitions began days after violence near a mosque injured some policemen, with officials citing encroachment notices; Muslim residents say similar structures elsewhere untouched
CHOMU — Bulldozers rolled into Imam Chowk in Chomu town of Rajasthan’s Jaipur District and pulled down several properties on Thursday, days after a dispute near a mosque led to stone-pelting and injuries to policemen. The action, carried out by a joint team of the local administration and the Municipal Council, has left Muslim residents shocked and angry, with many saying they are paying the price for an incident without fair hearing.
Officials said the drive targeted illegal constructions. Residents said the action followed a tense standoff outside a mosque, after which police cases were filed and demolitions began in quick time. A large police force was deployed, with barricades, drones and CCTV cameras watching the area.
“Everything happened very fast. Notices were given and then bulldozers arrived,” said Abdul Rahman, a shopkeeper whose structure was damaged. “My shop fed my family. Now it is gone. Others nearby are standing, but only our area was chosen.”
Police confirmed that several properties were razed at Imam Chowk. “Maintaining law and order is our duty,” said Pradeep Sharma, station in-charge of Chomu police station. “We are present with the Municipal Council. Action is being taken as per law, and only against encroachments identified by the council. No innocent person will be troubled.”
Senior officers backed the drive. Jaipur West Additional Commissioner of Police Rajesh Gupta said, “Around 19 to 20 notices were issued earlier. Those who did not remove the encroachments are facing action. Properties linked to people named in the recent violence are also covered.”
Muslim residents questioned the link between the violence and the demolitions. “This looks like collective punishment,” said local resident Mohammad Salim. “If there was stone-pelting, deal with the accused. Why destroy homes and shops?”
Community elders said complaints of illegal construction existed for years but action came only after the mosque dispute. “Why now?” asked Maulana Yusuf, a local cleric. “People feel targeted. Law should be equal for all.”
The administration appealed for calm and asked residents to cooperate. On the ground, fear remained high as families gathered near the rubble, uncertain about what comes next.
