'Vendetta': Muslim groups slam Jauhar University demolition
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The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) accused the state government and the Rampur Development Authority (RDA) of pursuing a vindictive campaign under the guise of regulatory action. In a statement, AIMPLB spokesperson S.Q.R. Ilyas argued that the university, established through sustained public support to address the educational backwardness of Muslims, was being targeted instead of being protected. He maintained that the demolition drive reflected a political vendetta against Samajwadi Party leader and university founder Azam Khan while simultaneously undermining the community's educational progress.
Rejecting the RDA's claim that 38 buildings were constructed without mandatory approvals, Ilyas contended that the area was not under the authority's jurisdiction when the structures were built and, therefore, no legal requirement existed to obtain its permission. The board urged the Uttar Pradesh government to immediately withdraw the demolition notices and resolve any legal or technical issues through due process instead of dismantling the institution.
The Student Islamic Organisation (SIO), Uttar Pradesh West Zone, also denounced the demolition order, calling it an attack on education, constitutional values and the rule of law. It said the university serves thousands of students, particularly from historically marginalised communities, and warned that razing the buildings would jeopardise their education, aspirations and future.
The RDA has directed the university to remove the allegedly unauthorised structures within 15 days, failing which it will carry out the demolition. Authorities have rejected the university's jurisdictional argument, though the district administration has instructed officials to minimise disruption to students by organising counselling camps and academic support measures.