Sambhal authorities commenced demolishing an illegal mosque in Rae Buzurg village, constructed on land designated for a pond and compost pits

NEW DELHI: Authorities in Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal district on Thursday carried out demolition drive targeting illegal constructions in Rae Buzurg village, officials said.Sambhal superintendent of police KK Bishnoi said the structures, which included a pond and compost pits, had been given a 30-day notice to remove the constructions but failed to comply. “The administration has decided to demolish it themselves. It was illegal construction. They’ve been given ample time,” he said.District magistrate Dr Rajender Pensiya added that the action followed due process. “Action against encroachment is being continuously carried out throughout the district. This is the land of a pond on which a large marriage palace is built. The Tehsildar issued an order for its demolition 30 days ago. No appeal was filed after this, hence the demolition action is being taken today. All the parties were heard in the court,” Pensiya said.“After that, the Tehsildar Court issued the order and we are proceeding accordingly. Everyone is of the opinion that if it is built illegally, then it should be demolished,” he added further.Police said drone surveillance is being used to monitor the operation. The buildings were reportedly being used as a madrasa and a “Barat Grah” (wedding hall), and were built across several acres of land without proper authorisation.