BJP MLA Flags Mazar Encroachment
Introduction
A fresh controversy has emerged in Deoria district of Uttar Pradesh, where allegations of illegal land encroachment linked to the expansion of a mazar (shrine) have triggered a high-level probe by the state government. The issue came to light after BJP MLA Shalabh Mani Tripathi lodged a formal complaint with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
The complaint alleges that the mazar has been illegally expanding over government land, including barren plots, a roadside drain, and even part of a national highway near the Deoria-Gorakhpur road railway overbridge. Following this, the state’s Principal Secretary Sanjay Prasad has ordered the district magistrate and superintendent of police to carry out a thorough investigation, verify land records, and, if encroachment is confirmed, remove the structure immediately.
The controversy not only raises questions about land ownership and unauthorized construction, but also revives memories of an old dispute surrounding the mazar, which has been a sensitive issue in the region for decades.
Background of the Complaint
On June 25, 2024, BJP MLA Shalabh Mani Tripathi, representing Deoria, formally submitted a complaint to the Chief Minister. In his representation, he highlighted that the mazar premises had expanded steadily over the years, allegedly without any official permission.
He questioned how the construction was permitted next to a railway overbridge, raising doubts about whether any sanctioned map or layout plan had ever been approved for the shrine.
According to Tripathi, the expansion has now crossed into government-owned land, including a public drain and parts of the national highway, making it not only legally questionable but also a matter of public safety and order.
Historical Context: A 28-Year-Old Dispute
The controversy surrounding the mazar is not new. Tripathi recalled that as far back as 28 years ago, senior Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) pracharak Ramnagina Yadav had questioned the legitimacy of the shrine.
According to the MLA, Yadav’s opposition to the structure led to his mysterious killing, which allegedly discouraged locals from pursuing any further legal action against the mazar. Since then, the shrine has reportedly expanded, with new constructions being added over time.
Locals, fearing repercussions, are said to have avoided raising objections publicly. Tripathi, however, has now reignited the debate, claiming that recent activities around the mazar appear suspicious, especially with outsiders gathering in large numbers at the site.
The MLA’s Demands
In his complaint, Shalabh Mani Tripathi made several key demands to the state government:
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Special Probe Team – A dedicated team from Lucknow to conduct a time-bound inquiry into land ownership records.
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Verification of Legality – Confirmation on whether the mazar is legal or unauthorized.
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Check on Approved Plans – Investigation into whether any sanctioned map or layout exists.
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Immediate Eviction if Illegal – If encroachment is proven, the government land should be freed without delay.
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Scrutiny of Activities – Inquiry into what activities are being conducted under the garb of the shrine.
Tripathi’s argument rests on the principle that government land should not be illegally occupied, regardless of the religious identity of the structure or its followers.
Government’s Response
Responding swiftly to the complaint, Principal Secretary Sanjay Prasad directed the district magistrate (DM) and superintendent of police (SP) of Deoria to:
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Verify the land records surrounding the mazar.
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Conduct a spot inspection of the site.
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Remove encroachment immediately, if found illegal.
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Submit a detailed report to the Chief Minister’s Office.
Officials confirmed that a formal probe has been initiated and a team is already reviewing historical land ownership documents, revenue records, and municipal clearances (if any).
The state government’s directive reflects its zero-tolerance policy towards encroachment and unauthorized structures, a stance that has been repeatedly emphasized under CM Yogi Adityanath’s leadership.
Community Reactions
The MLA’s complaint has sparked mixed reactions in Deoria:
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Supporters of Tripathi argue that no religious structure should be allowed to expand illegally, especially over public land. They believe the probe will help restore transparency and rule of law.
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Opponents, however, caution that such actions could lead to communal tensions if not handled sensitively. They insist that the government must ensure that legitimate religious sentiments are respected while removing illegal encroachments.
Many locals also expressed reluctance to speak openly, reflecting the sensitivity and history of the issue.
Encroachment Concerns in Uttar Pradesh
The issue of illegal religious structures on public land is not unique to Deoria. Across Uttar Pradesh, the government has been running drives to identify and remove encroachments, whether by temples, mosques, mazars, or other shrines.
In recent years, the Yogi Adityanath government has ordered demolition of unauthorized constructions on highways, public parks, and drains, arguing that public infrastructure and safety cannot be compromised.
The Deoria case fits into this larger framework, where the state aims to balance religious freedom with law and order.
Legal and Administrative Aspects
Legally, the expansion of a shrine without approval falls under unauthorized construction and encroachment, which is a punishable offense under land and urban planning laws.
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Revenue Records Verification – Officials are currently cross-checking whether the land falls under government ownership or private holdings.
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National Highway Authority Concerns – Since part of the alleged encroachment is on a highway stretch, the NHAI may also be consulted.
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Drain Encroachment – Blocking or occupying a drain is a violation of municipal and environmental rules, raising public health concerns.
If confirmed, the government has legal authority to evict occupants, demolish unauthorized portions, and reclaim land.
Political Implications
The issue also carries significant political weight. Being a BJP MLA, Shalabh Mani Tripathi’s complaint reflects the party’s consistent messaging against illegal encroachment and its push for law and order.
For the ruling party, such cases serve as an opportunity to demonstrate governance strength, especially in regions where communal sensitivities are high.
Opposition parties, however, may view this as selective enforcement and accuse the government of targeting specific communities. Thus, the investigation’s handling will be crucial in determining how the narrative unfolds.
The Way Forward
The probe initiated by the state government is expected to:
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Collect documentary evidence (ownership deeds, maps, and permissions).
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Conduct physical verification of the site.
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Engage with local stakeholders, including municipal bodies and highway authorities.
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Submit findings to the state government for final action.
If encroachment is established, the government may order immediate removal of illegal portions of the mazar while ensuring that law and order is maintained during the process.
Conclusion
The case of the Deoria mazar expansion highlights the broader challenge of balancing religious sentiments with rule of law. BJP MLA Shalabh Mani Tripathi’s complaint has compelled the Uttar Pradesh government to initiate a formal probe, focusing on land ownership, legality of construction, and the activities taking place at the site.
While the investigation is ongoing, its outcome could have long-term implications not only for Deoria but for other similar disputes across Uttar Pradesh. The government faces the delicate task of upholding law, transparency, and public safety, while ensuring that communal harmony remains intact.