The historic Noori Jama Masjid, located in Fatehpur, Uttar Pradesh, is at risk of being demolished as part of a Public Works Department (PWD) road-widening project. Built in 1839, the mosque has stood for over 180 years, predating the construction of the road it now allegedly encroaches upon.
The demolition drive began on September 24, with PWD authorities citing the structure as an obstruction. Members of the Mosque Committee had requested additional time to address the alleged encroachment themselves, but the PWD has been pressing forward with urgency.
The matter has sparked outrage among local communities, with many questioning the haste shown by the PWD. Critics have called it an “obsession” with targeting Muslim places of worship under the guise of infrastructure development. The Mosque Committee has also raised concerns about the cultural and religious significance of the structure, which they argue should be preserved as a historic site.
A hearing on the matter is scheduled for December 13, where the fate of the Noori Jama Masjid will be decided. Meanwhile, local activists and community leaders are urging the authorities to consider alternative solutions that do not involve demolishing the mosque.