Uttarakhand: Illegal Mazar Near Dehradun's Ghantaghar Demolished in Late-Night Drive

Dehradun: An illegal mazar built on government land near Ghantaghar, one of Dehradun’s busiest areas, was demolished late Thursday night in an official action by the district administration.

Officials from the district administration and the Mussoorie-Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA) carried out the operation after a notice period ended. The operation was carried out quietly, with police presence, and was completed without any confrontation.

Officials said the shrine had been standing on public land for years without permission. After verifying land records and issuing notices, the administration moved in once the deadline expired.

What led to the demolition?

According to officials, the land near Ghantaghar falls under government ownership. During routine checks and complaint reviews, the mazar was flagged as an unauthorised structure. A notice was served earlier, giving time to respond or remove it voluntarily.

"Any illegal construction on government land, regardless of its name or form, is a legal offense. The administration's policy in such cases is clear: first notice, then action. Valid documents were not submitted within the stipulated time, so demolition action was taken as per the rules. This action is not against any sentiment or class, but in favor of the law. Encroachment on public land will not be tolerated under any circumstances," Savin Bansal, District Magistrate said.

Why was Ghantaghar area chosen?

Ghantaghar is a high-footfall zone in the heart of Dehradun. Authorities said illegal constructions in such areas often cause traffic problems and safety concerns.

Officials added that clearing encroachments near major crossings is part of a wider plan to keep public spaces free and accessible.

"Similar strict action will be taken against all identified illegal encroachments in the future. The timing and method of action were strategically determined to maintain law and order. The Authority's clear objective is to free government land from encroachment and prevent any further disorder," Banshidhar Tiwari, Vice President MDDA said.

Was there any resistance?

The demolition took place under police supervision. No protest or law-and-order issue was reported during the action. The structure was removed using heavy machinery, and debris was cleared soon after.

Traffic movement in the area remained largely unaffected, as the operation was carried out at night.

Is this part of a larger drive?

The district administration said this action is part of an ongoing campaign to remove illegal encroachments from government land across Dehradun. In the past too, unauthorised religious and commercial structures have been removed after due process.

Officials maintained that the drive is not targeted at any community. “The law is the same for everyone. Any illegal construction on public land will be removed,” an officer said.

What do locals say?

Residents in the Ghantaghar area had mixed reactions. Some welcomed the move, saying it was long overdue and would help ease congestion. Others stressed the need for clear communication and sensitivity while dealing with religious structures.

For now, the administration says it will continue checking records and taking action wherever public land has been encroached upon.