Jaipur Encroachment Drive: Noorani Masjid Sealed, Demolition Action Begins Under Heavy Security

Jaipur: On Monday, the administration launched a big campaign regarding the road widening project in Malviya Nagar area of Jaipur. The Jaipur Development Authority (JDA) made preparations to remove many religious structures falling within the prescribed limits of the road, including the Noorani Masjid located in Nandpuri. Before the action, the entire area was cordoned off and thousands of policemen were deployed to maintain law and order. The administration says that this step has been taken to improve the traffic system of the city and to complete the long proposed road widening plan.

What is the road widening project and why are religious structures being removed?

According to JDA, the road from Malviya Nagar to Jagatpura is facing increasing traffic pressure. For this reason, a decision was taken to increase the width of the road. Officials claim that notices had already been issued to constructions falling within the limits of the road. Earlier, many residential and commercial constructions had been removed, whereas now the process of action on religious places has been taken forward. The administration says that the project is related to public interest and its completion will ease the traffic.

What questions did the Mosque Committee raise on the claims of the administration?

People associated with Noorani Masjid have objected to the action of JDA. The committee says that the mosque is several decades old and the concerned land was obtained under legal process. They claim that they were not given enough time and the notice was also submitted at the last moment. The committee representatives also said that if road widening is necessary then removal of a part of the mosque can be considered, but it would not be appropriate to remove the entire structure.

What preparations did the administration make regarding security?

Considering the action as sensitive, the administration made massive security arrangements. Flag march was carried out in the entire area under the joint supervision of police and administrative officials. More than three thousand policemen were deployed and senior officers were assigned different responsibilities. Special monitoring was kept on social media so that no rumor or inflammatory material could be circulated.

Why was the decision taken to stop internet services?

In order to prevent possible tension and rumours, the administration ordered temporary shutdown of mobile internet services in some police districts of Jaipur. Officials believed that during sensitive operations, misleading information could spread through social media, which could increase the risk of disturbing peace and order. For this reason, Internet restrictions and additional security measures were implemented.

In which direction did the political and social reaction go?

The matter has also taken on political colour. Some public representatives and social organizations have raised questions on the timing and process of action, while the administration is calling its decision completely legal and related to development work. On the other hand, the administration is continuously appealing to the people to maintain peace and not pay attention to any kind of rumour. At present, the entire city is keeping an eye on this action and its impact.