After violence, bulldozers raze ‘illegal structures’ in Rajasthan’s Chomu

Bulldozer action being carried out on the illegal constructions in Chomu, in Jaipur on Friday. (ANI Video Grab)

Days after violence near the Chomu bus stand in Rajasthan’s Jaipur district, bulldozers moved in on Friday to demolish what authorities claim were illegal structures belonging to those allegedly involved.

The operation lasted six hours, from 8 am to 2 pm, with officials saying 20 “illegal constructions” were demolished and three buildings sealed between Imam Chowk and Pathan Mohalla. Police said the action followed the issuance of notices and that an air gun and some sharp weapons were recovered from the affected premises.

The demolished structures included both residential and commercial properties. According to DCP West Hanuman Prasad Meena, notices had earlier been served to 23 people, giving them three days to remove the encroachments.

“After the deadline expired, markings were placed on the buildings and action was initiated. The notices, including those pasted on the houses of alleged stone pelters and illegal slaughterhouse operators, expired on December 31,” Meena said, adding: “Further action will be taken as per the law.”

The crackdown follows violence that erupted on December 25 over the installation of an iron railing outside a mosque near the Chomu bus stand. During the incident, stone pelters attacked the police, leaving six personnel with head injuries. The tension that followed led to a two-day internet shutdown in the town.

After the demolition, the Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister promised stern action, saying in a post: “The bulldozer action taken by the Bhajan Lal government against anti-social elements who spread unrest and disturb peace in Chomu clearly demonstrates that no one is above the law.”

“In Rajasthan, there will be no compromise on peace, security, and good governance. The government’s firm commitment is to take immediate and strict action against those involved in unrest, violence, and damage to public property,” he said.

At the centre of the conflict is land outside the Kalandari Mosque, located at a key intersection near the Chomu bus stand. According to the police, authorities, local residents and traders have complained for decades about the encroachment, saying it narrows the main road and causes severe traffic congestion.