Bajrang Dal Activists Protest 'Illegal' Mazaars on School Land in Mussoorie
Activists from the Bajrang Dal have voiced strong opposition to what they describe as illegal mazaars constructed on the Tehri bypass road. These structures are located on property belonging to a school in Mussoorie. The group claims the mazaars lack proper authorization and are expanding rapidly.
Claims of Unauthorized Construction
Anit Verma, a functionary of the Mussoorie unit of Bajrang Dal, stated that initially only one mazaar existed at the site. However, over the past few years, at least ten more have been built there. Verma expressed concern about the proliferation of such structures.
He further highlighted that new and illegal mazaars are appearing in other areas around the town, including Anda Khet, Kincraig, and Dalai Hill. The activists have written to multiple authorities, urging action. They contacted the police, forest department, and municipal council to address the issue.
Questions About Historical Claims
The controversy extends to the mazaar of Baba Bulle Shah, located near these disputed structures. Social activist Nidhi Bahuguna raised doubts about its authenticity. She filed a Right to Information (RTI) application in 2023 to the Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority.
The Authority reportedly responded that they had no records regarding the Bulle Shah mazaar. Bahuguna questioned the historical basis, noting that Bulle Shah never visited India. She claimed someone dreamed of the mazaar, leading to its construction and an annual Urs celebration.
Defense from Mazaar Committee
Rajat Aggarwal, president of the committee managing the Bulle Shah mazaar, defended the site. He asserted that the mazaar is nearly 100 years old and was built on school property with the school's permission. Aggarwal emphasized that the school provided the land for this purpose.
He added that nearby mazaars, which are also under scrutiny, are at least three decades old. Aggarwal appealed to everyone to maintain social harmony and respect the longstanding presence of these structures.
Official Inspection and Findings
Upendra Singh Rana, nayab tehsildar of Mussoorie, reported on a joint site inspection conducted by various departments. Representatives from the nagar palika, forest, revenue, and the school participated in the inspection.
During the inspection, school authorities confirmed that they had provided the land for the Bulle Shah mazaar. This statement adds a layer of complexity to the dispute, highlighting differing perspectives on legality and ownership.
