Uttar Pradesh CM has ordered investigation into alleged illegality of Mosque following Bajrang Dal’s complaint
Team Clarion
LUCKNOW — A mosque located within the premises of the District Magistrate (DM) office in Saharanpur district of Uttar Pradesh, has sparked a heated controversy, drawing attention from the highest levels of government. The Chief Minister’s Office has taken notice after a complaint by former Bajrang Dal state coordinator, Vikas Tyagi, calling the mosque’s construction ‘illegal’.
Tyagi, who recently met Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow, claimed that the mosque, built in recent years, was unlawfully constructed. According to Tyagi, there is a post office within the mosque’s premises, which houses three or four rooms. Tyagi alleged that these rooms are rented out to outsiders, including those who do not belong to the mosque’s regular congregation.
In response to these accusations, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed the Saharanpur district administration to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter. The district’s Tehsildar Sadar has been tasked with determining the veracity of these claims and submitting a detailed report as soon as possible.
Saharanpur District Magistrate Manish Bansal confirmed the order for an investigation, stating, “The Tehsildar will conduct an inspection and ascertain the facts of the matter.” Additional District Magistrate Administration, Archana Dwivedi, has also been involved in overseeing the investigation process.
Speaking on the issue, Vikas Tyagi expressed concern over the presence of outsiders in the area. He stated, “The mosque is not only illegal but also poses a security risk due to the unknown individuals who come and go.” Tyagi further emphasized the alleged financial activities within the mosque’s premises, including the rental of rooms and the post office, suggesting that it could be a matter of concern for local authorities.
The controversy has sparked strong reactions from various sections of the community. Supporters of the mosque argue that it has been an essential place of worship for local Muslims and was built with the permission of the authorities. However, critics, led by Tyagi and his supporters, are pushing for further scrutiny to ensure that the establishment complies with all legal and administrative regulations.
As the investigation proceeds, tensions remain high in Saharanpur, with both local residents and political leaders eagerly awaiting the outcome of the inquiry. The findings will likely have broader implications for the future of religious buildings constructed on government property across Uttar Pradesh.
The district administration has yet to confirm a timeline for the completion of the investigation, but they have pledged to act swiftly and transparently in addressing the allegations.
