In a significant crackdown following communal violence, authorities in Rajasthan's Jaipur district deployed bulldozers on Friday to demolish structures deemed illegal. The action targeted areas in Chomu town, specifically between Imam Chowk and Pathan Mohalla, which officials claim were encroachments belonging to individuals allegedly involved in recent unrest.
Six-Hour Demolition Drive: The Operation Details
The demolition operation commenced at 8 am on January 2, 2026, and continued for six hours until 2 pm. According to officials, a total of 20 "illegal constructions" were razed to the ground, while three other buildings were sealed. The properties included both residential and commercial establishments.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (West) Hanuman Prasad Meena stated that prior notices had been served. Notices were issued to 23 people, giving them a three-day deadline to remove the encroachments themselves. "After the deadline expired, markings were placed on the buildings and action was initiated," Meena explained. He clarified that the notices, which included those pasted on houses of alleged stone pelters and illegal slaughterhouse operators, had expired on December 31.
During the operation, police reported recovering an air gun and several sharp weapons from the affected premises. The DCP emphasized that further legal action would be pursued as necessary.
The Trigger: Violence and Internet Shutdown
This bulldozer action is a direct consequence of violence that erupted on December 25. The clash was centered around the installation of an iron railing outside the Kalandari Mosque, located at a key intersection near the Chomu bus stand. During the incident, individuals pelting stones attacked police personnel, resulting in six officers sustaining head injuries.
The tension in the aftermath was severe enough to prompt the local administration to order a two-day internet shutdown in the town to prevent the spread of rumors and further unrest.
Official Stance and Long-Standing Issue
Reacting to the demolition drive, Rajasthan's Deputy Chief Minister took a firm stance. In a social media post, he stated, "The bulldozer action taken by the Bhajan Lal government against anti-social elements who spread unrest and disturb peace in Chomu clearly demonstrates that no one is above the law." He further asserted the government's commitment to peace and security, vowing immediate and strict action against those involved in violence and damage to public property.
At the heart of this conflict is a long-standing grievance. Police and officials noted that authorities, local residents, and traders have complained for decades about the encroachment on land outside the Kalandari Mosque. They argue that the illegal structures have narrowed the main road, causing severe traffic congestion at the busy intersection near the bus stand.
The situation in Chomu remains under close watch as authorities signal a zero-tolerance policy towards encroachments and actions that disturb public order.
