Varanasi, UP: Waqf Board-run ‘Musafir Khana’ razed to ground; 300 police personnel deployed
According to reports, more than 300 security personnel have been deployed in the sensitive area to maintain law and order during the demolition exercise.
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A major demolition drive is currently underway in the Dalmandi area of Varanasi, razing alleged 'illegal' properties linked to a Waqf Board-run ‘Musafir Khana’ amid the ongoing road widening and redevelopment project in the locality. Heavy security deployment has been made at the site, with officials from the Public Works Department (PWD), district administration, Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), paramilitary forces, and local police overseeing the operation.
ACP Atul Anjan Tripathi told a news agency that after completion of the legal procedures by the concerned department, demolition work of the Waqf property “Musafir Khana” is being carried out. He said that sufficient time had been given earlier to the property owners, and the demolition action was started today after that period ended. An adequate police force has been deployed at the site. Barricading has been done to restrict public movement, and the area is also being monitored through drones.
According to reports, more than 300 security personnel have been deployed in the sensitive area to maintain law and order during the demolition exercise. Bulldozers and demolition teams reached the site early in the day as authorities intensified the Dalmandi widening project, which is aimed at easing congestion and improving connectivity in one of the city’s densely populated commercial zones.
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The action comes days after notices and inspections were reportedly carried out in the locality. Officials stated that the structures being removed fall within the proposed widening corridor. The Musafir Khana properties, allegedly operated under the Waqf Board, had become a major point of discussion during the redevelopment drive.
#WATCH | Varanasi, UP: Demolition drive underway against Waqf Board-run ‘Musafir Khana’ properties in the Dalmandi area. Heavy deployment of PWD, district administration, paramilitary, PAC and police at the site. Over 300 personnel deployed. pic.twitter.com/r7sOVqC3Ts
— ANI (@ANI) May 11, 2026
Reports suggest that the administration had earlier provided time to occupants before initiating the demolition. Security arrangements were significantly strengthened due to the sensitive nature of the area and the possibility of protests or unrest. So far, no major violence or untoward incident has been officially reported from the spot.
#WATCH | Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: Dashashwamedh ACP Atul Anjan Tripathi says, "This is a Waqf property, Musafir Khana, on which demolition work is underway. The relevant department has completed the legal process, and after giving sufficient time, the demolition action has been… https://t.co/QdDrf5s1KO pic.twitter.com/hKtX31W43t
— ANI (@ANI) May 11, 2026
The Dalmandi road widening project has remained controversial for months, with several residents and property owners raising objections and approaching courts over demolition notices. Earlier this month, the Allahabad High Court had reportedly stayed demolition action in one related property dispute in the area while seeking further clarification from authorities.