Internet services were suspended and thousands of police personnel were deployed across Jaipur on Monday as the Jaipur Development Authority (JDA) launched a major anti-encroachment drive in the city’s Jagatpura area.
The measure is part of the much-awaited road widening project on Nandpuri Road, where authorities seek to widen a 1.5 km stretch parallel to the railway line from its current width of around 25-30 feet to its permissible width of 80 feet.
The Jaipur district administration said that internet services have been temporarily suspended as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of rumors and inflammatory content on social media that may disrupt law and order while driving.
Five religious buildings have been marked for removal
The demolition includes the removal of five religious buildings located within the defined boundaries of the road, including a mosque, two temples, a satsang hall and a shrine.
Officials said the structures had been obstructing the expansion project for years, and notices had been issued in advance. Owners were also given time to voluntarily remove the structures before authorities began taking direct action.
According to Anand Sharma, deputy inspector general of vigilance wing of JDA, 134 encroachments were removed on the same stretch during the drive on May 22. Religious bodies and other passengers were then given additional time to comply, but the deadline has now expired.
Extensive security deployment throughout Jaipur
The authorities have put in place extensive security measures to prevent any untoward incidents.
More than 3,000 police personnel have been deployed across the city, including 12 companies of the Rajasthan Armed Constabulary (RAC). Additional troops have also been brought in from the Jaipur, Kota and Bharatpur mountain ranges, while sensitive areas around the city remain under tight surveillance.
Officials said action will be taken against anyone posting false or socially sensitive content online.
Nearly 50 colonies are expected to benefit from the project
The administration said that widening the road would improve connectivity between Jagatpura and key areas like Malviya Nagar, Pradhan Marg and Apex Circle, while reducing traffic pressure on Hare Krishna Marg.
Officials estimate that nearly 50 colonies will benefit from the project once it is completed.
Residents have been advised to expect a heavy security presence and possible restrictions on movement around the demolition site during the day.
Political and societal concerns
This campaign also sparked criticism from some political leaders and community groups.
Rafiq Khan, a Congressman, questioned the urgency of the practice and said matters related to places of worship should be dealt with through consultation and consensus. He urged the authorities to ensure that social harmony is maintained during this process.
Some community organizations and representatives associated with the mosque and shrine also raised objections, claiming that the buildings were being unfairly targeted. They said they would continue to challenge the measure through legal and peaceful means.
