Sambhal District Witnesses Second Mosque Demolition in Four Months Amid Land Encroachment Crackdown

Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, has been the focal point of significant administrative actions concerning land encroachments, with the district administration demolishing a mosque and a 30,000-square-foot marriage hall in Raya Buzurg village on October 2, 2025. This marks the second instance of mosque demolition in the district within a four-month period.

Background and Administrative Actions

According to authorities, both the mosque and the adjacent marriage hall were constructed on government land that was previously designated as a pond. The structures, built approximately ten years ago, were identified as illegal encroachments following a recent land survey. In response, the district administration initiated demolition proceedings to reclaim the encroached land.

The mosque’s management committee appealed for a stay on the demolition, citing the structure’s religious significance and the potential impact on the local community. In consideration of these concerns, the administration granted a four-day grace period, allowing the committee to voluntarily dismantle the mosque. Failure to comply within this timeframe would result in the administration proceeding with the demolition.

Security Measures and Public Response

To maintain law and order during the demolition process, the administration deployed a substantial police and paramilitary presence in the area. A flag march was conducted to ensure public safety and prevent any potential unrest. While the demolition of the marriage hall proceeded without incident, the situation surrounding the mosque remains under close observation.

Broader Implications

This series of demolitions in Sambhal has sparked discussions about the balance between preserving religious structures and enforcing land use regulations. The actions taken by the district administration reflect a broader effort to address illegal encroachments on government land, a matter that has implications for urban planning and community relations.

Conclusion

As the deadline for the mosque’s voluntary demolition approaches, all eyes remain on Sambhal. The outcome of this situation may set a precedent for how similar cases are handled across Uttar Pradesh and potentially influence policies regarding land use and religious site preservation in the future.