Demolition of Illegal Structures Spurs Outcry in Kaiserganj

The district administration in Kaiserganj took down 23 illegal structures based on a high court order, sparking protests from residents. Most affected structures belonged to minority community members and included houses built under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Notices had been issued, and most residents vacated voluntarily.

The district administration in Kaiserganj on Wednesday demolished 23 illegal structures, triggering protests from local residents. The high court ordered the demolition, with affected villagers claiming most houses belonged to minority community members who had resided there for generations.

Several dismantled buildings were constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, and some housed shops, according to local accounts. Alok Prasad, Sub Divisional Magistrate of Kaiserganj, clarified that the demolition occurred in Wazirganj Bazar, Sarai Jagna gram panchayat, in compliance with high court directives.

Prasad noted that the disputed area, comprising plots number 211, 212, and 92, included a government barn and road, later encroached by 11 shops, eight houses, and four tin sheds. The Supreme Court, in a September 2 order, affirmed that unauthorized constructions or encroachments on public roads, including religious structures, would not be protected.

(With inputs from agencies.)