Fear and anguish grip Raya Buzurg village as heavy police deployment turns it into a cantonment
SAMBHAL — A large demolition drive in Raya Buzurg village of Sambhal district on Tuesday left Muslim families distressed after bulldozers were used to demolish houses linked to mosque trustees, while the administration claimed the structures stood on government pond land.
The operation was carried out in the Asmoli police station area under heavy security. More than 50 police personnel, staff from four police stations, revenue officials and senior officers were present, turning the village into what residents described as a “cantonment”.
Tehsildar Dhirendra Pratap Singh said three brothers — Babu, Asrar and Abrar — who are trustees of the local mosque, had “illegally occupied 880 square metres of pond land under Plot No. 682 and built three houses”.
“The notice was issued in November 2022. The case went through the court, an eviction order was passed on February 4, 2025, and the appeal before the District Magistrate was dismissed in December,” Singh told reporters.
He added, “We are only acting as per court orders. The land will be used for official purposes.”
Muslim families in the village rejected the claim that the action was fair. A relative of the affected families said, “We are being singled out. Many constructions exist in the area, but only Muslim homes linked to the mosque were targeted.”
Another local resident said the use of force was excessive. “So many police were brought as if there was a war. We were scared. No one listened to our side,” he said.
The action also relates to the Gausalbara Mosque, which the administration claims stands on 552 square metres of government land near the same pond. Officials said a notice was served on mosque custodian Manzar Hussain and part of the structure was earlier removed.
“When we came in October, the mosque committee asked for time. The matter later reached the high court, which asked us to act as per rules,” a revenue official said.
Members of the mosque committee disputed this account. “We asked for proper measurement and a fair hearing. The mosque is old and serves the community. This action hurts religious feelings,” said a committee member.
Deputy Tehsildar Deepak Kumar Jaril, who is leading the special team, said law and order was maintained throughout. CO Asmoli Kuldeep Kumar said, “Police have been deployed only for security. Three illegal houses are being demolished today.”
Local Muslims said the demolitions have deepened fear and mistrust. “Development should not mean bulldozers on Muslim homes and mosques,” a resident said. “Justice should be equal for all.”
