Locals up in arms against demolition of mosque in Kolkata

Abdul Majid, a local resident, said the mosque was a heritage property, which was demolished illegally. “It was built in 1942 and was the most prestigious structure here. It has suddenly been demolished. We are sad and are writing to authorities against the act,” he added.

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Members of Ayesha Khatoon Masjid Welfare Committee, which takes care of the mosque, said it has been demolished to make way for a bigger structure that can accommodate more people.

“Only a few are opposing the demolition and they have vested interests. Many have been ousted from the masjid’s committee for their corrupt practices,” said Javed Akhter, the president of the committee.

He added: “The masjid, which can barely accommodate around 500 people, will now be rebuilt with space enough for over 5,000 people. The crowd will not spill over to the road. The announcement that the mosque will be demolished was made a year ago and no one had protested then.”

When contacted, Sushil Kumar Sharma — the councillor of ward 65, under which the mosque falls — said it was a sensitive matter and the masjid committee was good enough to handle it. “I have not interfered. I am too busy campaigning for the upcoming municipal polls,” he added.

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