Muslim bodies question extraordinary haste in Saharanpur mosque demolition

Muslim leaders, Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind and Jamaat-e-Islami Hind, have united to strongly condemn the rapid demolition of a century-old mosque in Saharanpur. The group argues that the manner in which the demolition was executed raises serious concerns about the administration's adherence to proper legal procedures.

Mahmood Madani, president of one faction of Jamiat, questioned the administration's conduct, pointing out that since the dispute involved land within the Collectorate premises, the administration and magistrate had become parties to the matter. He emphasized that no party can serve as its own judge, a principle universally recognized in law.

Malik Moatasim Khan, vice-president of Jamaat-e-Islami, described the act as "brazen and unforgivable," implying political bias and bigotry. He questioned the administration's decision, asserting that the mosque's demolition exposed their prejudiced mindset.

Madani also argued that the lower court's order, issued on September 4, did not explicitly order the immediate demolition of the mosque. The mosque's destruction occurred within hours, denying affected parties sufficient time to seek legal remedies or obtain a certified copy of the court order. He emphasized that a lower court decision can be appealed to higher courts and that citizens have the right to seek relief from the judiciary.

Madani urged the mosque committee to appeal to the High Court without delay and called upon all sections of society to speak out against what he called "a growing pattern of arbitrary action against mosques and other places of worship." His uncle, Arshad Madani, further questioned whether the Constitution and the law are being applied equally for every citizen and religion.