All India Muslim Personal Law Board Strongly Condemns Demolition of Ancient Mosque

New Delhi, September 8, 2026:

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has strongly condemned the demolition of a more than century-old mosque located within the Saharanpur Collectorate premises, describing it as a grave violation of the rule of law, religious freedom and the fundamental principles of justice.

AIMPLB spokesperson Dr. S. Q. R. Ilyas said that on July 16, 2026, the City Magistrate’s Court declared the mosque to be an unauthorised occupation of government land and ordered its eviction. The mosque management challenged the order before the District Court. On September 2, the District Court dismissed the appeal and upheld the City Magistrate’s order. However, on September 4, the district administration assured local residents that the mosque would only be sealed. Yet, the very next morning, at around 4 a.m., the mosque was demolished.

Dr. Ilyas said that an eviction order cannot by itself justify the immediate demolition of a religious structure. If the mosque management still had the legal right to approach a higher court, demolishing the mosque without allowing it an effective opportunity to pursue legal remedies was contrary to the principles of justice and natural justice.

He said that even if the government claims ownership of the land, it is bound by the rule of law, a fair hearing and the principles of natural justice. A claim that the land belongs to the government does not empower the State to act above the law. Articles 14, 21 and 25 of the Constitution guarantee equality, due process and freedom of religion, respectively.

Dr. Ilyas further stated that following the demolition, an ancient well approximately 20 feet deep was discovered beneath the debris. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has inspected the site and collected samples. In view of this, an impartial examination of the mosque’s historical status, official records and ownership of the land is essential.

Dr. Ilyas demanded:

• An impartial legal inquiry into the entire process leading to the demolition of the mosque.
• Full disclosure of the legal basis and orders under which the mosque was demolished.
• A comprehensive examination of the mosque’s historical status, land records and all  documents relating to the Waqf.
• An effective opportunity for the mosque management to approach the higher courts.
• Appropriate action against officials found responsible for violating the law.

He said, “Disputes concerning places of worship must be resolved through law, courts and the Constitution—not bulldozers.” The rule of law requires the State to apply the same legal standards to every citizen and every place of worship.

The Board hopes that the mosque management will approach the higher courts and that the courts will thoroughly examine the legal and constitutional dimensions of the matter. The Board will extend all possible legal and moral support to the mosque management.