Historic Kabul House in Dehradun Evicts 17 Families After Decades: Court Order Ignites Controversy
Dehradun | The Kabul House, a historic building where Afghanistan’s exiled king Mohd Yakub Khan lived from 1879 until his death in 1923, has evicted 17 families after a court order sparked controversy. The eviction process, which began on Thursday, marks the end of a 40-year legal battle between the district administration and the residents of the Kabul House.
Spread over 19 bighas of land, the Kabul House is estimated to be worth more than Rs 400 crore. Following the Partition, when the king’s descendants migrated to Pakistan, the property was declared an enemy property. This designation paved the way for the eviction, as per the court order.
According to City Magistrate Pratyush Singh, the residents were provided with an advance notice to vacate the premises, following the district court’s order. However, the residents claim that they received the court notice to vacate the building within just two weeks, leaving them with insufficient time to make the necessary arrangements. They were caught off guard on Thursday when police personnel arrived to carry out the eviction.
Residents expressed their dismay at the sudden action, stating that their belongings were being removed from the building and the premises were being sealed. The forced eviction has caused significant inconvenience to the inhabitants, particularly children and the elderly.
This contentious situation has sparked a debate about the rights of long-standing residents and the historical significance of the Kabul House. While the court order was upheld by the authorities, many argue that the abrupt nature of the eviction and the lack of sufficient time for relocation has resulted in unnecessary hardship for the affected families.
The Kabul House holds sentimental value for both the descendants of King Mohd Yakub Khan and the local community. It represents a significant piece of history, with its association to a prominent figure and the era during which he resided there. The cultural and architectural importance of the building cannot be overlooked.
However, it is crucial to find a balance between preserving historical landmarks and addressing legal considerations. The court’s decision to designate the property as an enemy property after the Partition must be taken into account. This case raises questions about the inheritance and ownership rights of properties that have a complicated historical background.
Moving forward, it is imperative to explore possible solutions that take into consideration the sentiments of the affected families, as well as the historical and cultural value of the Kabul House. The eviction has shed light on the need for clear guidelines and procedures when dealing with properties that hold significant historical significance.
The controversy surrounding the eviction of 17 families from the Kabul House serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between preserving history and addressing legal obligations. It is a topic that requires careful deliberation and empathy for all parties involved, as they navigate through this complex situation.
