The ongoing demolition of illegally constructed homes in Lucknow's Akbar Nagar has sparked a contentious debate, particularly on social media, with allegations from certain quarters, including Islamists, that the Yogi Adityanath government is unfairly targeting Muslims post-election. Claims assert that Muslim families are being singled out for eviction as retribution for not voting for the BJP. Controversial activist Teesta Setalvad has amplified these claims through a video, urging political leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav to intervene. Setalvad's endorsement has further fueled the narrative that the demolition is politically motivated.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath (Image source: Business Today)
Conversely, some voices, exemplified by a video shared by user Ishan, support Yogi Adityanath's measures, viewing them as necessary to reclaim public land and maintain law and order, particularly against what they label as 'jihadist' activities.
The Truth Behind the Demolition Drive
In reality, the demolition drive in Akbar Nagar is part of the larger initiative to clear encroachments for the Kukrail riverfront project. Reports from India TV have clarified that both Muslim and Hindu families are affected, debunking claims of selective targeting based on religious affiliation.
Local media outlet Ultah Chashma has highlighted the impact on Hindu families, citing significant losses incurred during the ongoing demolition. Interviews with affected Hindu residents underscore their dissatisfaction with the government's approach, questioning the fairness of displacing Akbar Nagar residents.
Despite assertions from Islamists and certain interest groups, the government's actions are not driven by post-election outcomes. The encroachment removal process predates recent elections and aims to facilitate urban development rather than target specific religious communities.
Political Implications
The backdrop of recent Lok Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh, where the NDA faced unexpected results compared to the I.N.D.I Alliance, has intensified perceptions of political retribution. However, factual reporting indicates that the demolition is rooted in urban planning priorities rather than electoral dynamics.
Why is the demolition drive happening in Akbar Nagar, Lucknow, and since when has the process been ongoing?
As difficult as it may be to witness, it's crucial to acknowledge that all the residential and commercial properties being demolished by the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) are unauthorized. Many families settled along the banks of the Kukrail River years ago, gradually erecting permanent structures. Despite this encroachment and obstruction of the vital water body, successive governments turned a blind eye, for reasons known only to them.
In 2023, the LDA instructed residents to evacuate their homes for an anti-encroachment campaign, issuing notices and correspondence. Residents of Akbar Nagar, Lucknow, sought relief from the High Court, temporarily halting the demolition in their area.
However, on June 10th of this year, the LDA commenced the demolition to pave the way for the Kukrail riverfront project. The entire area was cordoned off, with traffic redirected to facilitate the demolition, conducted in two shifts. Eight units of the Uttar Pradesh Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and the Rapid Action Force (RPF) were deployed to maintain order.
Residents hastily packed their belongings upon the arrival of LDA officials with bulldozers, with some vehemently protesting the government's actions. Notably, the LDA had previously issued warnings via notices and announcements over loudspeakers regarding the impending demolition.
Supreme Court Upholds Legal Demolition Drive Decision
A Supreme Court panel comprising Justices Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta granted legal authorization for the demolition on May 10th, endorsing the Allahabad High Court’s directive regarding the removal of "unauthorized construction" in the predominantly Muslim Akbar Nagar area. The ruling emphasized that individuals should not be displaced until the LDA (Local Development Authority) provides alternative housing.
Additionally, it's noteworthy that this isn't the initial demolition initiative. The demolition process has been unfolding in stages. In February of this year, approximately 78 slum dwellings were cleared. Some residents had already opted for alternative housing through initiatives like the PM Awas Yojna and Vasant Kunj Yojna, while others didn't contest the demolition. The LDA adhered to proper legal procedures and gave prior notice before commencing the demolition.
Although the first bulldozer entered Akbar Nagar on December 21, 2023, the Allahabad High Court's Lucknow bench temporarily halted the demolition proceedings. However, no definitive injunction was issued to permanently halt the demolition.
How the Kukrail river was encroached and illegal immigrants were settled under SP govt
The Kukrail River, known to have attracted illegal settlers over the years, has a documented history dating back 200 years, first recorded in a 1904 gazetteer according to a comprehensive report by the Times of India. Advisers to the Yogi government, including a professor from Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University involved in the Kukrail project, note that the 28-km-long river once covered a basin of approximately 192 sq km. However, during the Samajwadi Party's administration, a surge in illegal settlements along its banks led to its degradation into little more than a drain.
The current demolition drive targets an area allocated to the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) for development in 1980. By 1984, the LDA had identified 283 illegal constructions on the flood-prone banks, a number that escalated to 1200 by 2023. Investigations revealed that the SP regime facilitated the settlement of illegal immigrants in the area, aided by land mafias who forged documents to sell properties that have since been demolished.
In 2023, the Yogi Adityanath government initiated efforts to rejuvenate the Kukrail river. As part of the Kukrail Riverfront project, the government identified and ordered the demolition of illegal settlements along its banks.
Kukrail Riverfront Project, and alternate housing provided by Govt
Notably, residents who have lost their properties due to the demolition drive are being provided resettlement houses through the PM Awas Yojana. The government is actively working to relocate other affected individuals. The government's demolition drive is aimed at realizing the Kukrail Riverfront Project. This initiative involves not only clearing illegal encroachments on the riverbed and floodplains but also rejuvenating ponds and smaller water bodies in the Asti area, where the Kukrail originates.
To date, 105 illegal properties have been demolished. The project also focuses on preserving and enhancing the area's natural aesthetics and restoring the Kukrail River. The state administration is overseeing the beautification of 22 ponds in the Asti locality, which will act as feeders for the Kukrail River and important reservoirs of water and biodiversity.
By revitalizing the riverbed and ensuring uninterrupted flow, the project aims to rejuvenate the river and protect the ecology, thereby mitigating flood risks during the monsoon season.
The state envisions the Kukrail riverfront project as a means to enhance Lucknow's beauty and prevent frequent floods exacerbated by encroachments. Initially vacant, the riverbanks gradually saw the illegal settlement of several families. The government now intends to transform the Kukrail riverfront into a popular picnic destination with boating, street food stalls, and sports facilities. All illegal properties earmarked for this purpose have been reclaimed by the government. Media reports suggest that residents unlawfully residing in the area will be provided alternative housing under the PM Awas Yojana.
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