Authorities say the structure was built on government land and removed after notices went unanswered
DEHRADUN — The Uttarakhand administration bulldozed a mazaar in the Sheeshambara area of Vikasnagar as part of the state’s ongoing “anti-encroachment” campaign targeting “unauthorised structures” on government land.
The operation, invariably targeting Muslims, their madrasas, mazaars and mosques, was conducted along the Shimla Bypass Road. Officials confirmed that the entire action was completed peacefully without any untoward incidents or resistance from local groups.
According to the district administration, the mazaar was constructed on public government land, and residents had been lodging complaints about the structure for a considerable period. This prompted a detailed inquiry by the revenue department, which ultimately determined that the construction lacked necessary permissions and approvals.
Officials maintained that the due legal process was strictly followed before the demolition. A formal notice was issued and served to the shrine committee nearly two weeks ago, giving them adequate time to submit valid documents proving ownership of the land and permission for the construction. However, no satisfactory records were produced within the stipulated timeframe, which left the administration with no option but to proceed with the action in accordance with the law. Tehsildar Vivek Rajouri, who led the operation, stated that the concerned parties were given a fair opportunity to present their case, but the absence of valid documentation made the demolition inevitable.
In addition to the mazaar, the administration removed five other illegal encroachments from government land in the nearby areas of Thakurpur, East Hope Town, and Sheeshambara on the same day. Tehsildar Rajouri reiterated that the drive forms part of a larger and continuous effort across Vikasnagar and other parts of Dehradun district to free public land from unauthorised occupation.
