50-year-old Mosque demolished in Haryana, sparks outrage
Chandigarh: Tensions gripped in BJP-led Haryana state of India after a 50-year-old mosque was demolished by the state authorities amidst heavy police presence.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the incident occurred in Badkhal village of Faridabad district. The mosque, known locally as Aqsa Masjid, was razed despite residents stating that the matter is still under consideration by the Supreme Court of India.
The operation involved around 250 police personnel and officers, including three Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs). Locals expressed strong resentment, accusing the administration of acting in haste and in contempt of court.
“This mosque was built on land donated by our former sarpanch over five decades ago,” said Mushtaq, a resident of Badkhal village. “It’s heartbreaking. There was no final decision by the Supreme Court. Why did they tear it down?”
He added, “First, they demolished a few small shops. Then they came for our mosque. It was deliberate. We weren’t even given time.” The land dispute has persisted for more than 25 years. Residents maintain that the mosque stood on village land and that the Municipal Corporation’s claim over the land is unjustified.
Several residents stated that the authorities are targeting the Muslim community under the guise of anti-encroachment drives.
“If the matter was sub judice, what was the rush? Why not wait for the Supreme Court’s verdict?” asked Aslam Qureshi, a local community leader. “This isn’t just about land. This is about dignity and faith.”
He also questioned the political motives behind such actions. “We’ve seen a pattern. Religious places of minorities are being targeted while illegal constructions elsewhere are ignored. It’s not law – it’s bias.”
Legal experts point out that if the matter was indeed pending before the Supreme Court, such action could amount to contempt of court. “If the Supreme Court has not passed a final order permitting demolition, then the Municipal Corporation may have overstepped,” said Advocate Iqbal Ahmad, a Delhi-based constitutional lawyer. “The court’s silence does not imply permission.”
“In recent years, such demolitions have increased,” said Prof. Rizwan, a political analyst. “They reflect a growing tendency to ignore due process when it comes to minorities. The silence of ruling party leaders on such matters speaks volumes.”
