Police register a case against seven individuals including the village head
Team Clarion
BAREILLY — Tension gripped Jam Sawant Shumali village under Baheri tehsil in Uttar Pradesh’s Bareilly District on Friday as Hindu groups objected to congregational noon prayers at a newly constructed tin-shed mosque. The mosque is reportedly built on a plot of land surrounded by a boundary wall and covered with a tin shed. After objections from a Hindu group, a police investigation was launched and a case was filed against seven individuals, including the village head.
Hindu Jagran Manch Yuva Vahini district president Himanshu Patel lodged a formal complaint against the villagers. “The construction and use of this mosque were done without obtaining prior permission from the district administration,” Patel claimed. He also shared a drone video of the Friday congregation prayers on social media, alleging that the village sarpanch facilitated the prayers without official clearance.
Based on Patel’s complaint, the police have initiated action, naming seven individuals, including the village head, Qadir Ahmed, Mujammil, Aqeel Ahmed, Chhote, and Shahid. The complaint alleges that the site was transformed into a mosque illegally by erecting a tin shed and offering prayers.
Speaking on the matter, Superintendent of Police Ashutosh Singh said, “We have registered a case under relevant sections and are investigating whether the land is legally designated for a mosque or if it constitutes an encroachment. We urge both communities to maintain peace while the inquiry is underway.”
Advocate Raees Ahmed provided clarity on the issue: “If the land is legally waqfed (endowed) for a mosque, offering prayers on it is permissible as soon as construction begins. Additionally, if Muslim residents of an area collectively buy a plot and start using it for prayers, it is lawful, provided the land’s ownership and usage comply with local regulations.”
Ahmed emphasised that a tin-shed mosque on private or legally acquired land does not inherently violate the law, but the matter depends on ownership records and local permissions.
Following the incident, police presence has been increased in the village to prevent escalation. Authorities are appealing for calm while investigating the ownership and administrative approval of the site.
“This issue has unnecessarily created tension among communities,” said resident Mohd Rashid. “If the mosque is on legally owned land, prayers should not be an issue. We hope the matter is resolved peacefully.”
The incident sheds light on ongoing disputes regarding religious structures and their use across Uttar Pradesh. It also raises questions about the balance between religious practices and administrative regulations.
The investigation continues as officials work to ensure that law and order are maintained while addressing the concerns of both communities.
