Bahraich violence: Shopkeepers demolish own shops fearing bulldozer action

Shopkeepers in Uttar Pradesh’s Bahraich have begun demolishing parts of their shops following notices issued by the Public Works Department (PWD) to vacate properties due to illegal construction. The PWD had served the notices to 23 establishments, 20 of which belong to Muslim shopkeepers.
This action follows a recent communal flare-up in the Maharajganj area of the district, during which a 22-year-old man was shot dead, triggering heightened tensions in the district.

Fearing bulldozer action, shopkeepers have started taking matters into their own hands. After vacating their shops, they have begun demolishing the illegal portions themselves. This is being done to avoid both the destruction of their entire establishments by government bulldozers and the fees associated with such action.
The PWD notice specified that any construction within 60 meters of the main road is considered illegal. Shopkeepers were seen dismantling these illegal sections in compliance with the order.
One of the shopkeepers said, “It’s better for us to remove the unauthorised portions ourselves rather than waiting for the bulldozers to arrive.”
The PWD on Friday carried out inspections in the Mahrajganj area and took measurements of 20-25 houses, including that of Abdul Hameed, one of the men accused of having a role in the killing of Ram Gopal Mishra on Sunday.
The person said the illegal houses identified will be served notices under the Road Control Act 1964.