Hyderabad, April 16 -- A 50-year-old mosque, Aqsa Masjid, whose case is pending in the Supreme Court, was arbitrarily demolished by the municipal corporation amidst heavy police presence, including three assistant commissioners of police, at Haryana's Faridabad district, sparking public outcry among the local Muslim community.

The demolition took place on Monday, April 15. Situated in Badkhal village, the question of the mosque's alleged encroachment was pending in the Supreme Court. Angry locals expressed strong resentment and accused the district administration of acting in haste.

"It is heartbreaking. There was no final decision by the Supreme Court. Why did they tear it down?" asks Mushtaq, a local resident, adding, "First they demo...