Uttar Pradesh police have detained 12 individuals in Mohammadganj village for conducting Friday prayers at a private house without prior administrative approval, local media reported.
Authorities said the action was taken as a preventive measure to maintain law and order following a tip-off from the community.
“No prior permission was taken from the local administration for conducting the congregational Friday prayers at this site. Considering the risk of public disturbance, preventive action was taken,” said Sub-Inspector Anees of Bisharatganj police station.
SP (North) Anshika Verma added that authorities received information indicating that a private residence had been turned into a mosque and madrassa illegally. “Those involved were warned not to repeat such activities without proper permission,” she said.
The house in question, reportedly owned by a woman named Resham, usually remains locked. Her husband passed away a few years ago, and she along with her two children currently works in another state, locals said.
Some villagers defended the action, explaining that the village does not have a nearby mosque. Afser Khan noted, “The nearest mosque is three kilometers away. Elderly residents find it difficult to travel, especially in cold weather. Friday prayers were held here for convenience.”
However, others claimed the house was functioning as a mosque and madrassa. Tejpal Singh said he recorded videos of the gatherings and alerted the police.
In response to the incident, additional police personnel have been deployed in Mohammadganj village, and senior officers are closely monitoring the situation to prevent further tensions.
In other news read more about Asiya Andrabi Convicted Amid India’s Intensified Crackdown on Kashmiri Leaders
Authorities have urged residents to follow legal procedures and obtain administrative permission before conducting congregational prayers or religious activities in private properties.
