The Rampur Development Authority (RDA) has issued a controversial demolition order targeting 38 out of 40 buildings at Mohammad Ali Jauhar University, citing lack of approved building plans. Only the medical college and one main academic block reportedly have valid approvals. The university has been given 15 days to remove the structures, failing which authorities will proceed with demolition.
The order, issued on Wednesday by Rampur District Magistrate and RDA Vice-Chairperson Ajay Kumar Dwivedi under Section 27 of the Uttar Pradesh Urban Planning and Development Act, 1973, follows notices issued in late June. University representatives appeared before the authority but their argument that the buildings were constructed before the area fell under RDA jurisdiction was rejected. Officials maintained that approvals were mandatory under earlier laws like the Zila Panchayat Act.
The affected buildings span a built-up area of approximately 82,309 square metres. Authorities stated that the violations cannot be regularised under existing regulations, making demolition the only option. The order references Supreme Court judgments emphasising strict action against unauthorised constructions.
Administration / RDA Statement (District Magistrate Ajay Kumar Dwivedi):
“The buildings of Jauhar University were constructed in Gram Singhan Kheda, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Rampur Development Authority (RDA).”
University officials have argued that the structures predate the RDA’s jurisdiction. The institution, established by the Mohammad Ali Jauhar Trust and chaired by senior Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan, offers various courses including engineering, law, pharmacy, and humanities. It has faced multiple legal and administrative challenges in recent years.
The District Magistrate has directed officials to minimise impact on students, with counselling camps to be set up on campus.
Supreme Court Reference in the Order:
“The order also cited Supreme Court judgments on unauthorised constructions, observing that such violations warrant strict enforcement of the law.”
Opposition parties have strongly criticised the move, alleging political targeting linked to the university’s association with Azam Khan.
Opposition Statement (Samajwadi Party National Spokesperson Juhie Singh):
“The demolition order [is] ‘unjustified’… [This reflects] a targeted campaign against Azam Khan and the institution established by him.”
SP spokesperson Ashutosh Verma added that the BJP government has shut down thousands of schools but is now targeting a university, questioning the timing ahead of elections. Congress leaders, including Pawan Khera, Imran Pratapgarhi, and Dr. Md. Jawaid, echoed concerns, highlighting inconsistencies in enforcement and urging protection of educational institutions.
Students have also raised alarms. Fourth-year B.A. LL.B. student Mukrim Rawl wrote to the Chief Minister, warning of disruption to thousands of students’ futures and urging a compassionate approach.
The development comes against the backdrop of long-standing disputes over land and jurisdiction at the university, which has seen declining enrolment amid ongoing controversies. The Mohammad Ali Jauhar Trust is expected to challenge the RDA order in court. The case highlights tensions between regulatory enforcement and the need to safeguard access to higher education in the region.
