UP News: The Fatehpur district administration in Uttar Pradesh has taken significant action by demolishing a portion of the historic Noori Jama Masjid, citing illegal encroachment as the primary reason. This mosque, which dates back to 1839, is located in Lalauli town and has recently been at the center of a legal dispute regarding its structural modifications that allegedly obstructed the widening of the Banda-Bahraich Highway (State Highway 13).Demolition Details and JustificationsOn December 10, 2024, local authorities employed bulldozers to demolish approximately 20 meters of the mosque, which they claimed was illegally constructed over the past three years. The Public Works Department (PWD) had previously issued notices to the mosque management committee on August 17 and December 24, 2023, demanding the removal of the encroaching structure. Despite assurances from the committee that they would comply, no action was taken prior to the demolition. The mosque committee had sought legal recourse by approaching the Allahabad High Court, which is scheduled to hear their petition on December 12.Uttar Pradesh: Illegal structure of famous “Noori Jama Masjid of Fatehpur demolished by bulldozer. pic.twitter.com/ogl2TzqPvN— Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) December 10, 2024Inspector Vrindavan Rai of the Lalauli police station confirmed that law enforcement was heavily deployed during the demolition to maintain order. All shops within a radius of about 200 meters around the mosque have been closed, he stated, underscoring the precautions taken amid concerns of communal tension.Historical Context and Community ResponseThe Noori Jama Masjid holds significant cultural and historical value in the region. Its management committee argues that since the mosque predates the highways construction—established in 1956—the claims of illegal encroachment are unfounded. Mohammad Moin Khan, chief of the mosque management committee, expressed frustration over the situation, stating, The Public Works Department is calling some parts of the mosque illegal despite its historical significance.The demolition has sparked concerns among local residents and community leaders about potential repercussions for cultural heritage sites in Uttar Pradesh. The mosque committee is advocating for recognition as a heritage site and seeks to protect its historical integrity against further encroachments.As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on the upcoming court hearing that could influence future actions regarding not only Noori Jama Masjid but also other historical structures facing similar threats. The Fatehpur administrations decision to proceed with demolition amid ongoing legal proceedings raises questions about governance and respect for cultural heritage in India.
