Mufti Condemns Demolition Orders as Act of Vengeance
Srinagar: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti issued a sharp criticism of the Uttar Pradesh government and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday, July 26, regarding the ongoing legal and administrative battle over Mohammad Ali Jauhar University. In a post on the social media platform X, Mufti described the state's actions against the institution as driven by "hatred and vengeance."
Mufti stated that destroying an institution of learning displayed nothing but these negative sentiments. She urged the public to stand in support of the students who have been protesting the demolition orders issued by local authorities. Her comments mark a direct political intervention in the dispute, which has drawn attention from various quarters due to the university's affiliation with prominent opposition figures.
The former chief minister specifically addressed Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, suggesting that he should take note of recent political developments elsewhere in the country. Mufti pointed to the protests at Jantar Mantar as a lesson for the Uttar Pradesh leadership, noting that the youth across India are increasingly rejecting what she termed the "politics of hate and division."
Authorities Cite Unauthorized Construction Amid Jurisdictional Dispute
The controversy stems from an order issued by the Rampur Development Authority (RDA) on July 15, which directed the demolition of 38 out of 40 buildings at the Mohammad Ali Jauhar University campus. The authority cited a lack of necessary plan approvals as the primary reason for the action.
Rampur District Magistrate Ajay Kumar Dwivedi confirmed that the demolition initiative was triggered by a report submitted by a regional junior engineer. According to Dwivedi, the engineer had identified alleged unauthorized constructions on the university premises, prompting the administrative response.
Mohammad Ali Jauhar University, which was founded by jailed Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan, has contested the validity of the RDA's order. The university administration argued that the specific area targeted for demolition lies outside the jurisdiction of the Rampur Development Authority. Despite this claim, the administrative orders have proceeded, leading to the current standoff and student protests.
Political Implications and Student Protests
Mufti’s intervention highlights the growing political tension surrounding the university. By linking the local demolition issue to broader national trends observed at Jantar Mantar, she framed the dispute as part of a larger ideological conflict. Her call for people to stand with the protesting students adds pressure on the state government to reconsider its stance.
The situation at Mohammad Ali Jauhar University has become a focal point for opposition parties critical of the Uttar Pradesh administration. The university's founders and supporters view the demolition orders as an attempt to suppress educational institutions linked to political rivals. Conversely, the RDA maintains that the actions are strictly procedural, aimed at enforcing urban planning regulations.
As the dispute continues, Mufti’s statements serve to amplify the voices of the students and faculty involved. The reference to Jantar Mantar protests underscores her assertion that there is a growing resistance against what she perceives as divisive political tactics. The outcome of this administrative and political clash remains uncertain, with both sides holding firm to their respective positions regarding jurisdiction and political motivation.