Varanasi Demolition Drive Escalates with Protests and Media Blackout
In a significant development in Varanasi, a joint team comprising the district administration, Public Works Department (PWD), and Varanasi Municipal Corporation (VMC) advanced to the Dalmandi area on Tuesday to proceed with the demolition of buildings for a crucial road-widening project. This action follows the booking of two identified individuals, Azmat Ali and Farooq, along with several unidentified persons, on charges of obstructing government work and engaging in arson during Monday's high-tension operations.
Security Measures and Media Restrictions Implemented
Officials halted media entry into the demolition zone, citing pressing security and safety concerns. Assistant Commissioner of Police Atul Anjan Tripathi emphasized that the congested lanes posed a substantial injury risk without proper safety gear, leading to the decision to bar journalists from the site. Instead, daily briefings have been arranged to keep the public informed. Police displayed printed advisories at key entry points, including Chowk and Naisadak, advising media personnel to avoid the area, which is now under surveillance by drone cameras.
Monday's Dramatic Protests and Legal Actions
The demolition drive sparked intense protests on Monday when a joint team arrived with six bulldozers to dismantle 21 dilapidated buildings. A volatile situation unfolded as Rahmat Ali, appearing on his balcony with a mug of petrol, threatened to set his house ablaze. Despite attempts to de-escalate, he sprinkled fuel on the balcony, a wooden door, and nearby individuals before igniting a fire. Farooq also opposed the demolition, labeling it illegal. It took nearly thirty minutes to restore order near Ali's residence, after which demolition work commenced. Azmat Ali and Farooq have been booked under Section 221 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Section 7 of the Criminal Law Amendment Act for their roles in the arson and protests.
Project Details and Ongoing Demolition Efforts
This demolition is part of a Rs 224-crore project aimed at widening the Dalmandi road to 17.4 metres, which will enhance access to gate-4 of the Kashi Vishwanath Dham and alleviate traffic congestion on alternative routes such as Maidagin-Godowlia. The initiative involves acquiring and demolishing 187 buildings along a 650-metre stretch. Last week, VMC served notices to the owners of 21 dilapidated buildings in Dalmandi, instructing them to vacate within three days. Following Tuesday's operations, PWD Executive Engineer KK Singh reported that major demolition work continued at 20 buildings declared dilapidated by VMC, with remaining tasks and debris removal from 16 already razed and 14 partially demolished structures proceeding peacefully.
Broader Implications and Community Impact
The events highlight the challenges of urban development projects in densely populated areas, balancing infrastructure improvements with community concerns and legal compliance. The use of central paramilitary forces and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) underscores the heightened security measures in place. As the project advances, authorities remain focused on minimizing disruptions while ensuring public safety, with ongoing monitoring and strategic planning to address any further incidents.
