The Bareilly district administration conducted a demolition drive on Saturday, targeting structures deemed illegal in various parts of the district. Among the structures affected was Raza Palace, a banquet hall in the Jakhira area owned by Dr. Nafees Khan, who has been arrested in connection with recent local violence.
Officials, including the District Magistrate, described the demolitions as a routine exercise against unauthorized constructions, citing issues such as building without approved land maps, encroachment on government land, and contributions to waterlogging. A demolition order for Raza Palace had reportedly been issued on May 17, 2025, and the operation was carried out with a significant police presence.
This action followed over a week after violence occurred in Bareilly, reportedly related to an ‘I Love Muhammad’ controversy. In connection with these clashes, Senior Superintendent of Police Anurag Arya confirmed 83 arrests, the registration of 10 First Information Reports (FIRs), and the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the incidents.
Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/bareilly-violence-bulldozers-raze-baraat-ghar-owned-accused-officials-demolition-routine-10288530/