Administration Banned Eid Prayers in Kasamandi Fort-Mosque Dispute, Heavy Forces Deployed

Lucknow: The dispute surrounding the fort-mosque complex in Lucknow’s Kasamandi area has intensified. Ahead of Eid-ul-Adha (Bakrid), the administration has taken a significant step by imposing a ban on offering prayers at the disputed site. The administration states that this decision was taken with the objective of maintaining law and order and preventing any potential tensions. Following this decision, security arrangements in the area have been tightened, and a heavy police force has been deployed.

According to administrative officials, differences between the two parties regarding the disputed site had been escalating over the past few days. On one hand, the Muslim side identifies the structure as a mosque, while members of the Pasi community claim the site to be the historical fort of Raja Kans. Several organizations representing the Pasi community have also raised demands for the site to be declared a protected heritage monument. They assert that the site is deeply intertwined with their history and cultural heritage.

Given the sensitive nature of the dispute, the district administration is maintaining continuous dialogue with representatives from both sides. Officials have made it clear that neither party will be permitted to take the law into their own hands. The administration has appealed to the public to maintain peace and to refrain from paying heed to rumors.

**Heavy Deployment of Police Forces in the Area**

In view of Eid-ul-Adha, a heightened state of vigilance is being observed in the area. Police and PAC (Provincial Armed Constabulary) personnel have been deployed in the vicinity of the disputed site. Surveillance has also been intensified through the use of drones and CCTV cameras. A cyber team has been activated to monitor social media platforms, ensuring that any provocative posts or rumors can be immediately intercepted and curbed.

The local administration affirms that the situation remains fully under control and that all necessary measures are being taken to uphold peace and order. Officials have also indicated that further course of action regarding the dispute will be determined following an examination of its historical and legal aspects. For the time being, the administration’s primary focus remains on maintaining peace and communal harmony during the Eid festivities, thereby preventing the occurrence of any untoward incidents.