'Illegal' Jaipur mosque razed, heavy security, internet curb precede demolition
Jaipur authorities on Monday demolished a mosque as part of an anti-encroachment drive. Ahead of the demolition, police had tightened security measures across the city
Jaipur authorities on Monday demolished a mosque as part of an anti-encroachment drive. Ahead of the demolition, police had tightened security measures across the city. Earlier in the day, the Jaipur Development Authority (JDA) sealed the Noorani Mosque before proceeding with its demolition as part of a road-widening project connecting Malviya Nagar and Jagatpura in Jaipur. Officials had declared the mosque an illegal structure, stating that it fell within the road boundary and was removed as part of the exercise. Read Full Story However, the mosque management denied that the structure was built illegally, claiming that the land had been purchased on lease from the Forest Housing Society and that the mosque was constructed in 1981.
The district administration had temporarily suspended internet services in several parts of Jaipur as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order. Jaipur Police had also conducted flag marches in Muslim-majority localities amid concerns over possible communal tensions. Around 50 officers and 3,000 police personnel were deployed across the city to maintain law and order. Road expansion work had been underway for several days, but the mosque had remained untouched, prompting criticism of the BJP on social media. The reported sealing of the structure and the commencement of demolition proceedings had since drawn significant public attention.
A day before the demolition, Jaipur Police Commissioner Sachin Mittal had warned of strict action against anyone attempting to spread rumours, misinformation or religious unrest during the drive. He had warned that anti-social elements could try to disturb communal harmony by circulating provocative videos, misleading posts or other inflammatory content on social media and digital platforms. Mittal had said any individual found deliberately creating or sharing false or provocative material, or attempting to incite religious sentiments, would face legal action. The commissioner added that Jaipur Police's cyber and law-and-order units had been directed to maintain round-the-clock surveillance of social media and other digital platforms and take immediate action against any activity that could disrupt public order.
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