Jaipur Under Tight Security as Authorities Launch Anti-Encroachment Drive, Suspend Internet

Internet services were suspended and thousands of security personnel deployed across Jaipur on Monday as authorities began a large-scale anti-encroachment operation in the city’s Jagatpura area as part of a long-delayed road-widening project.

The Jaipur Development Authority (JDA) is seeking to widen a 1.5-kilometre stretch of Nandpuri Road, which runs parallel to a railway line, from its current width of around 25-30 feet to the approved width of 80 feet.

Officials said mobile internet services were temporarily suspended to prevent the spread of rumours or inflammatory content on social media that could affect law and order during the operation.

Five Religious Structures Among Demolitions

The drive includes the removal of five religious structures located within the road’s designated boundary — a mosque, two temples, a satsang hall and a mazar.

According to officials, these structures have long hindered the expansion project. Notices were issued well in advance, and occupants were given time to voluntarily remove the constructions before authorities moved ahead with demolition.

Anand Sharma, Deputy Inspector General of the JDA Vigilance Wing, said 134 encroachments along the same stretch had already been cleared during an earlier operation on May 22. Religious bodies and other occupants were subsequently granted additional time to comply, but the deadline has now expired.

Massive Security Arrangements

Authorities have deployed more than 3,000 police personnel across Jaipur, including 12 companies of the Rajasthan Armed Constabulary (RAC), to ensure the operation proceeds without incident.

Additional forces have been brought in from the Jaipur, Kota and Bharatpur ranges, while surveillance has been intensified in sensitive areas across the city.

Officials warned that strict action would be taken against anyone found circulating false information or communally sensitive content online.

Road Project to Benefit 50 Colonies

The administration said the widening of Nandpuri Road is expected to significantly improve connectivity between Jagatpura and major areas such as Malviya Nagar, Pradhan Marg and Apex Circle, while easing traffic congestion on Hare Krishna Marg.

Authorities estimate that nearly 50 residential colonies will benefit from the project once it is completed.

Residents have been advised to expect heavy security presence and possible traffic restrictions around the demolition site throughout the day.

Opposition Voices Concerns

The operation has drawn criticism from some political leaders and community groups.

Congress MLA Rafiq Khan questioned the urgency of the demolition and argued that issues involving places of worship should be resolved through dialogue and consensus. He urged authorities to take steps to preserve communal harmony.

Representatives associated with the mosque and mazar have also objected to the action, alleging that the structures were being unfairly targeted. They said they would continue to pursue legal remedies and peaceful protests against the demolition.