Priyanka Tiwari
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A demolition drive in the Jalalpur area of Ambedkar Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, triggered widespread criticism on Monday after a video went viral on social media. The video shows an eight-year-old girl running with her books while a bulldozer clears structures behind her. The footage has led to strong political backlash against the Yogi Adityanath-led state government.
Opposition Parties Slam UP Government Over Demolition
Prominent political figures, including Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav and the Uttar Pradesh Congress unit, condemned the demolition. Akhilesh Yadav tweeted, criticizing officials for destroying homes to display authority, saying, “A girl is forced to run to save her books, while BJP leaders claim to support educating daughters.”
The Congress also posted the video on social media, describing it as a symbol of government failure. “This video is a curse for those who snatch books from children’s hands and roofs from their heads,” the party wrote.
Police Defend Demolition, Cite Legal Orders
In response, Ambedkar Nagar police stated that the demolition was carried out as part of an anti-encroachment effort following a legal eviction order issued by the Tehsildar’s court in Jalalpur. Authorities claim that multiple notices were served prior to the action and only non-residential illegal structures were demolished.
Court Order Cited for Demolition
According to official documents, the order for eviction was based on a ruling dated October 10, 2024, under Section 67 of the Uttar Pradesh Revenue Code, 2006. The court directed the removal of a person named Ram Milan from government land in Arai village. Along with the eviction, a fine of ₹1,980 and ₹800 in execution charges were imposed. The local magistrate instructed authorities to enforce the order within one week.
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