Jaipur, January 2, 2026: In a major law-and-order operation on Friday, the Jaipur administration carried out a demolition drive in Chomu town targeting illegal constructions allegedly linked to individuals involved in recent violent clashes near a local mosque.
The action came nearly a week after tensions erupted on December 26, when a dispute over encroachments and the removal of iron railings and stones outside a mosque near Imam Chowk escalated into stone-pelting against police personnel. Multiple policemen were reportedly injured during the unrest, and more than 100 people were detained during the initial crackdown.
Demolition Drive Underway
Municipal authorities, with support from local police, razed several illegal structures identified as encroachments on public land and possibly related to those accused in the violence. Notices had been issued to around two dozen residents weeks earlier, giving them time to respond or remove the encroachments voluntarily. After the deadline passed without compliance, the Chomu Municipal Council proceeded with the demolition.
Rajesh Gupta, ADCP of Jaipur West, confirmed that police were deployed throughout the operation to maintain peace and prevent a resurgence of hostilities. “The drive is aimed at enforcing municipal laws and deterring future violence,” he stated.
Background of the Incident
The controversy began when authorities attempted to address road blockages and alleged unauthorized constructions near the mosque area. While initial efforts to clear stones and debris reportedly began peacefully, tensions grew when iron railings were installed, leading to confrontations between locals and law enforcement.
During the violence last week, security forces resorted to tear gas and baton charges to control crowds after stone-pelting incidents. Communication services, including mobile internet, were temporarily suspended at the height of the unrest to curb misinformation and further mobilization.
Arrests and Ongoing Actions
So far, at least 19 suspects have been arrested in connection with the stone-pelting violence, and investigations are continuing, with authorities reviewing video footage to identify additional participants.
Local residents have given mixed reactions to the demolition. Some have welcomed the enforcement against encroachments that reportedly created traffic hazards, while others have urged the administration to ensure that only those directly involved in the violence face action.
The administration has stressed that the operation is a lawful execution of municipal regulations and not targeted at any particular community. Security remains heightened in Chomu as the situation stabilizes.