A mosque located inside the Saharanpur Collectorate complex was demolished on Saturday morning following a court ruling that upheld an earlier order declaring the structure illegal. Authorities deployed a heavy police presence across the city amid concerns over possible tension after the demolition.
The action came three days after the district judge’s court upheld the order passed by the City Magistrate’s Court. The dispute over the mosque had been ongoing for around one and a half years.
The demolition also triggered political reactions, with statements circulating on social media from local councillors and political leaders. Meanwhile, Kairana MP Iqra Hasan was placed under house arrest by police at her residence in Kairana as she was reportedly preparing to travel to Saharanpur.
Why Was the Saharanpur Collectorate Mosque Declared Illegal?
The controversy began in March 2025 when Vikas Tyagi, former state convenor of the Bajrang Dal, filed a complaint alleging that the mosque inside the Collectorate premises had been constructed illegally.
The complaint also alleged that commercial activities were being carried out within the Collectorate complex, which, according to the complainant, could pose a security concern for the administrative premises.
The matter remained before the City Magistrate’s Court for approximately 18 months. In July, the court ruled that the mosque was illegal.
The order was subsequently challenged before the district judge’s court. Three days before the demolition, the district court upheld the City Magistrate’s decision, paving the way for the administration to proceed with the action.
Six Bulldozers Used to Demolish Mosque
Rumours about the possible demolition had already begun circulating on Friday night. The speculation led to reactions from several councillors and political leaders on social media.
The demolition operation was eventually carried out early Saturday morning. Officials used six bulldozers to bring down the mosque located within the Collectorate premises.
Security was significantly increased in Saharanpur, with police personnel deployed at several locations to prevent any untoward incident and maintain law and order.
Iqra Hasan Placed Under House Arrest
The demolition controversy also drew attention from Kairana MP Iqra Hasan. She was reportedly on her way to Saharanpur during the night in connection with the Collectorate mosque issue.
Police from Kairana police station reached her residence and placed her under house arrest. A large number of police personnel, including the station house officer, were reportedly present outside her residence.
The move came amid heightened security concerns surrounding the demolition and the possibility of protests or political mobilisation in the area.
Security Tightened Across Saharanpur
With the demolition taking place against the backdrop of a prolonged legal dispute and political reactions, authorities have increased security across Saharanpur.
Police have been stationed at sensitive locations to prevent clashes or disturbances. Authorities are also keeping an eye on social media activity following the circulation of rumours and statements related to the demolition.
The development is likely to remain politically sensitive as local leaders and opposition representatives respond to the court-backed action.
