Demolition Drive Continues in Dalmandi Amid Protests; Man Sets House Ablaze in Anger
Varanasi: The demolition drive in the densely populated Dalmandi area of Varanasi continued on Tuesday amid heightened security and mounting tension.
Citing the sensitivity of the operation and concerns over public safety, the administration restricted the entry of media personnel into the area, a senior police officer said.
Tension escalated when a resident, identified as Abdul, allegedly set his own house on fire after learning that the structure was likely to be demolished next.
According to officials, Abdul poured petrol from a bottle inside the house and set it ablaze in a fit of anger.
The dramatic act was captured on camera and quickly went viral on social media platforms, drawing widespread attention and sparking sharp reactions.
As the demolition progressed, a large number of angry women—mostly belonging to the Muslim community—gathered at the site and confronted police personnel and civic officials.
Heated arguments broke out, with protesters accusing the administration of acting unfairly and attempting to forcibly halt the demolition process.
Officials said the situation was brought under control after additional police forces were deployed.
An FIR has reportedly been registered against some of the protesters for obstructing government work and creating a law-and-order situation.
Why Dalmandi Is Being Demolished
Officials said the demolition drive is part of a larger urban redevelopment and decongestion plan aimed at easing chronic traffic bottlenecks and improving civic infrastructure in the old city.
The Dalmandi stretch, located close to key heritage and commercial zones, has long been identified as one of the most congested pockets of Varanasi, with narrow lanes, unauthorized constructions, and poor access for emergency services.
The administration maintains that many structures in the area were either illegally constructed or had exceeded sanctioned limits.
The drive, officials said, follows due legal process, including surveys, notices, and opportunities for affected residents to present their objections.
Authorities also claimed that rehabilitation and compensation measures are being provided as per government norms.
A Locality with a Long, Complex History
Dalmandi has a layered social history. Once known decades ago as a red-light area, it gradually transformed over time, with prostitution declining and residential settlements expanding.
Today, the locality is predominantly inhabited by Muslim families and is marked by closely packed homes and small commercial establishments.
Residents, however, allege that the demolition will uproot long-settled families and disrupt livelihoods.
Many claim they were not given sufficient time or clarity regarding rehabilitation, an allegation denied by officials overseeing the drive.
As the demolition continues, security remains tight in Dalmandi, with police maintaining a strong presence to prevent further escalation.
The administration has appealed to residents to maintain peace, stating that the redevelopment initiative is aimed at long-term public benefit, while assuring that the lawful entitlements of affected families will be addressed.
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