Sambhal Administration Demolishes Madrassa Built on Encroached Gram Samaj Land
In a significant enforcement action, authorities in Sambhal district demolished a madrassa that was allegedly constructed on encroached gram samaj land. The operation took place on Thursday in Naroli village under the jurisdiction of the Baniyather police station, with heavy security deployment to ensure order.
Six-Year Operation on Public Land
Administration officials revealed that the madrassa, operating under the name Madrasa Banjari Kuan, had been functioning for nearly six years on gram samaj land. The structure occupied gata numbers 1635 and 1636, covering approximately 225 square metres of public property.
The demolition was executed under Section 67 of the Uttar Pradesh Revenue Code, following a thorough legal process that began with a formal complaint. This complaint triggered a revenue inspection on September 8, 2023, where a lekhpal conducted precise land measurements.
Legal Process and Court Appeal
The lekhpal's report confirmed the illegal occupation, leading to the issuance of demolition orders in June 2024. Members of the madrassa committee subsequently filed an appeal before the ADM court, seeking to halt the action. However, this appeal was rejected, providing the final legal clearance for the enforcement drive.
Senior officials emphasized that the land was originally recorded as a manure pit and a public pathway, highlighting the violation of public space regulations. SDM Ashutosh Tiwari, who supervised the operation, stated that several houses allegedly built illegally on the same gata numbers have been identified and will face similar action after due legal process.
Massive Security Deployment and Preparations
The demolition was conducted under tight security to prevent any untoward incidents. The security arrangement included:
- Police personnel from multiple stations
- Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) units
- Fire services teams on standby
Additional supervision was provided by two Naib Tehsildars and revenue officials, ensuring proper protocol adherence throughout the operation.
Smooth Transition for Students and Residents
Before the demolition commenced, residents voluntarily vacated the premises and removed their belongings, facilitating a smooth execution. Officials confirmed that children who were studying at the madrassa have been shifted to another madrassa operating on private land within the same village, ensuring continuity in their education.
This action underscores the administration's commitment to reclaiming encroached public land and enforcing land use regulations. The case serves as a precedent for similar encroachments that may face legal scrutiny in the future.
