Jaipur Anti-Encroachment: Internet Shutdown, 3,000 Cops, Religious Structures Affected
Jaipur is under high alert due to a major anti-encroachment drive by the JDA targeting five religious structures for road widening. Mobile internet is suspended, and over 3,000 police personnel are deployed to maintain law and order, preventing rumors and unrest.
Key Highlights
- JDA initiated major anti-encroachment drive in Jaipur's Jagatpura area.
- Five religious structures, including a mosque and two temples, are being removed.
- Mobile internet services suspended for 24 hours to prevent unrest.
- Over 3,000 police personnel deployed, including RAC, for security.
- Drive aims to widen Nandpuri Road from 25-30 feet to 80 feet.
- Notices for voluntary removal were issued earlier, deadline expired.
Jaipur is currently experiencing a heightened state of alert as the Jaipur Development Authority (JDA) has commenced a significant anti-encroachment drive in the Jagatpura area. This operation, launched on Monday, June 8, 2026, is part of a long-standing project to widen Nandpuri Road, a crucial 1.5-kilometer stretch running parallel to a railway line. The road, presently measuring between 25-30 feet in width, is slated for expansion to its officially sanctioned 80 feet to alleviate traffic congestion and improve connectivity in the city.
A pivotal and sensitive aspect of this demolition drive involves the removal of five religious structures that fall within the designated road boundary. These include a mosque, two temples, a satsang hall (spiritual gathering hall), and a mazar (shrine). Authorities, including Anand Sharma, Deputy Inspector General of the JDA Vigilance Wing, have stated that these structures have obstructed the widening project for several years. Notices were issued well in advance, providing the occupants and religious bodies ample time to voluntarily remove the constructions. However, with the stipulated deadline now expired, the administration has proceeded with direct action. This follows a previous drive on May 22, 2026, where 134 other encroachments along the same stretch were cleared.
To manage the potentially volatile situation and prevent any untoward incidents, the Jaipur district administration has implemented extensive security measures. A substantial deployment of over 3,000 police personnel, including 12 companies of the Rajasthan Armed Constabulary (RAC), has been made across the city, with increased surveillance in sensitive areas. Additional forces have also been brought in from the Jaipur, Kota, and Bharatpur ranges. Half-a-dozen bulldozers, excavators, and dumpers were reportedly at the site on Monday morning.
Furthermore, as a precautionary measure to curb the spread of rumors and inflammatory content that could disrupt law and order, mobile internet services (2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G), along with bulk SMS, MMS, and major social media platforms such as Facebook, X, Instagram, WhatsApp, and YouTube, have been temporarily suspended. This internet shutdown, ordered by Jaipur Divisional Commissioner V. Saravana Kumar, came into effect from midnight on June 7, 2026, and is expected to last until midnight on June 9, 2026, in specific police districts of Jaipur North and Jaipur East. Voice calling services, however, remain operational. Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) have also been imposed, restricting rallies, processions, demonstrations, and gatherings of more than five people in public places without prior permission, effective from June 7 evening until June 22 midnight. Police Commissioner Sachin Mittal has warned of strict legal action against anyone attempting to spread communal disharmony or misinformation online.
The road-widening project is anticipated to benefit approximately 50 colonies by improving connectivity between Jagatpura and key areas like Malviya Nagar, Pradhan Marg, and Apex Circle, while also reducing traffic pressure on Hare Krishna Marg. Despite the administrative rationale for the drive, it has drawn criticism from some political leaders and community organizations. Congress MLA Rafiq Khan questioned the urgency of the exercise and advocated for resolving matters involving places of worship through consultation and consensus, emphasizing the need to maintain social harmony. Community groups associated with the affected mosque and shrine have also voiced objections, alleging unfair targeting, and have stated their intention to challenge the action through legal and peaceful means.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason behind the anti-encroachment drive in Jaipur?
The drive is part of a long-pending road-widening project on Nandpuri Road in the Jagatpura area, aiming to expand a 1.5-kilometer stretch from its current 25-30 feet to its sanctioned width of 80 feet to ease traffic and improve connectivity.
Which religious structures are being affected by the demolition drive?
The demolition exercise includes the removal of five religious structures: a mosque, two temples, a satsang hall, and a mazar, all of which fall within the road's designated boundary.
Why have internet services been suspended in Jaipur?
Mobile internet services were suspended as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of rumors and inflammatory content on social media that could disrupt law and order during the sensitive anti-encroachment drive.
How many police personnel are deployed for the drive?
More than 3,000 police personnel, including 12 companies of the Rajasthan Armed Constabulary (RAC), have been deployed across Jaipur to maintain peace and prevent any untoward incidents.
Have the occupants of the religious structures been given prior notice?
Yes, officials confirm that notices had been issued well in advance, and occupants were given time to voluntarily remove the constructions before authorities initiated direct action.