Authorities in Uttar Pradesh used bulldozers to demolish illegal structures in Sambhal district on Oct. 2, 2025 [1].

The operation targets unauthorized constructions on public land to ensure the safety of public passages and enforce government directives. This action reflects a broader state effort to clear encroachments from government-owned property.

The demolition drive took place in Rae Buzurg village and Chandausi town [1], [3]. The structures removed included a marriage hall, a shrine, and a mosque that were found to be encroaching on a public passage and government-owned pond land [2], [3].

Sub-divisional Officer Santosh Tripathi of the Uttar Pradesh Electricity Department participated in the operation. Regarding the placement of infrastructure, Tripathi said, "the electricity pole was inside their ..." [2].

District authorities and police oversaw the process to maintain order during the removals. While several structures were demolished immediately, the mosque was given four days [1] for voluntary demolition before authorities intervened.

The timing of the drive coincided with the day of Dussehra [1]. Officials said the primary goal was the removal of illegal encroachments to restore access to public land and ensure the safety of the surrounding area [2].

“the mosque was given four days for voluntary demolition”

The use of 'bulldozer justice' for encroachment removal is a recurring administrative tactic in Uttar Pradesh. By targeting a mix of commercial and religious structures, the state signals a policy of strict land-use enforcement, though such actions often spark local tension regarding the selective application of demolition orders.