Police act after Karbala Committee protested against land levelling in Ranjitpur Chilbila, saying burial ground was under threat
PRATAPGARH — Tension gripped the Ranjitpur Chilbila area of Pratapgarh in Uttar Pradesh after an alleged attempt was made to occupy Karbala land, a site linked to Muslim religious practices. Police stepped in swiftly, detained four men, and seized two JCB machines which were brought to the spot.
According to police, the incident took place on Thursday, when a group led by Vijay Maurya arrived at the Karbala ground with heavy machines. Local people said the land was levelled without consent, leading to fear and anger in the area.
Members of the Karbala Committee rushed to the site and objected. They alleged that the men involved abused, threatened, and pushed committee members when they tried to stop the work. “This land is sacred for us. It has been used for generations. We were shocked to see JCBs inside the Karbala,” said Haider Ali, president of the Muharram Committee.
Police said four teams from nearby stations were sent to control the situation. Circle Officer Prashant Raj led the operation, while Additional Superintendent of Police Shailendra Lal and Sub-Divisional Magistrate Nancy Singh were also present.
“We received information about a serious dispute. Immediate action was taken to stop any damage to religious property,” said CO Prashant Raj. “Both JCB machines were seized, and four people were taken into custody.”
Those arrested were identified as Vijay Maurya, Vishal Maurya, Anoop Srivastava, and Ankit Jaiswal. Police registered a case on the complaint of Haider Ali under sections related to assault, criminal threats, creating tension, and hurting religious feelings.
Residents said the issue is not new. A case linked to this land is already pending in court between Ramshiromani Pandey and the Karbala Committee. Past disputes have led to unease in the area.
Muslim residents also pointed to a wider pattern, saying religious sites are facing pressure in several districts. Some said anger shown by Hindu groups over pictures of entertainment icons Payal and Mannara visiting Muslim religious places has added to mistrust.
“The law must protect places like Karbala. These are not just plots of land, they are part of our faith,” said local resident Shahnawaz Ahmad.
Police said the situation is calm for now and the area is under watch. “No one will be allowed to disturb peace. Strict action will follow if anyone tries again,” an officer said.
People in the area have appealed for fairness and asked the administration to respect religious land until courts give a final decision.
