Internet suspended, 3,000 cops deployed as Jaipur begins demolition drive

It continued to be guarded heavily on Sunday when a strict anti-encroachment measure was undertaken by the government in Jagatpura region of the city, leading to internet blockade and deployment of nearly 3,000 policemen.

This was carried out as part of an ongoing project for road widening on Nandpuri Road, wherein JDA plans to widen a section that spans for 1.5 km and whose present width is about 25 to 30 feet, to the sanctioned 80 feet.

According to the authorities, this move is aimed at solving traffic problems and providing improved connectivity between many residential colonies in the city. This move has, however, been met with political and social opposition as a number of religious structures fall under the list of demolitions.

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Five religious structures marked for removal

As per government officials, there are total five religious buildings that lie in the prescribed road path, which will be demolished. The five religious buildings are a mosque, two temples, a satsang and a mazar. According to the authorities, proper notice was given to the people living in those structures way ahead of the process of demolition.

Anand Sharma, Deputy Inspector General of the JDA Vigilance Wing, said that as many as 134 buildings in the very same stretch were demolished in a drive carried out on May 22. Adequate time was later on given to the affected residents before the start of the process.

The concerned administration said that Internet connection was blocked for some time in the area to stop the spread of rumors in any shape or form.

Massive security deployment across the city

Given the sensitivity of the operation, authorities have put extensive security measures in place. More than 3,000 police personnel, including 12 companies of the Rajasthan Armed Constabulary (RAC), have been deployed across Jaipur. Additional security forces have also been drawn from Jaipur, Kota and Bharatpur ranges.

Officials said surveillance has been intensified in sensitive locations, and strict action will be taken against those found sharing false or inflammatory information online.

Residents in and around the affected areas have been advised to expect traffic diversions, movement restrictions and a heightened police presence throughout the day.

Road project expected to improve connectivity

Officials argue that the widening of Nandpuri Road is crucial for easing congestion in one of Jaipur's rapidly developing corridors.

The upgraded route is expected to strengthen connectivity between Jagatpura, Malviya Nagar, Pradhan Marg and Apex Circle while reducing pressure on alternative roads, including Hare Krishna Marg. Authorities estimate that nearly 50 residential colonies will benefit from the project once completed.

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Political concerns and community objections

The demolition drive has triggered criticism from some political leaders and community representatives. Congress MLA Rafiq Khan questioned the timing and handling of the operation, stating that matters involving places of worship should ideally be resolved through dialogue and consensus.

Representatives associated with some of the affected religious structures have also objected to the action, alleging selective targeting and vowing to pursue legal remedies while maintaining peaceful protest. Officials, however, insist that the action is part of a broader urban infrastructure project and not directed at any particular community.