The action has sparked protests and allegations of inadequate notice, while police maintain the operation followed legal procedures
HYDERABAD — The demolition of a mosque in the Suraram area of Hyderabad has triggered a strong reaction from the community. The mosque was removed by the revenue department this week under heavy police presence.
Authorities stated that the structure was built on government land, while local groups and community representatives have described it as a place of worship.
The demolition of Masjid-e-Syed Maulana occurred in the early hours of Monday (20 April).
Police personnel were deployed at the site during the operation to maintain order, officials said.
Representatives of Majlis Bachao Tehreek (MBT) have strongly objected to the demolition.
MBT spokesperson Amjadullah Khan claimed that the structure was being used as a place of worship and had been established recently on land allegedly donated for religious use.
He said, “People were not given enough time to even remove religious items like prayer mats and copies of the Holy Qur’an.”
Residents alleged that the demolition was carried out without prior notice, leaving families and worshippers with no time to respond.
Some residents also claimed that nearby houses were affected during the action, though officials have not confirmed damage to residential properties.
Police officials, however, rejected the claims that the demolished structure was a recognised religious site.
They stated that the building was an unauthorised construction on government land and was removed strictly according to legal procedures.
A senior police officer said the action was carried out in accordance with administrative orders.
The incident has also drawn political attention, with questions being raised by local representatives about whether due process was followed and whether the occupants were informed in advance.
MBT representatives have urged the state government to clarify the circumstances surrounding the demolition.
While authorities maintain that the action was lawful and necessary to remove encroachments, local groups insist that the structure was being used for religious purposes.
The matter continues to be disputed, with both sides presenting conflicting accounts.
At present, no official statement has been issued by the state government regarding further action. The issue is expected to remain under discussion as authorities and local representatives present their positions.
