Controversial Demolition of Mosque in Gujarat Defies Supreme Court Ruling

In a controversial move, the Gujarat administration demolished a mosque, dargah, and graveyard, believed to be over 500 years old, in Gir Somnath district on September 28, Muslim Mirror reported.

This action defies a recent Supreme Court ruling that halted all demolitions nationwide without prior permission, except for specific encroachments.

The demolition was part of a broader initiative to clear what the government termed “illegal constructions” near the Somnath temple, facilitating the Somnath Development Project. Reports indicate that around 36 bulldozers, along with 30 JCBs and 50 tractors, were deployed, marking the largest demolition effort in the area’s history.

To ensure the operation’s smooth execution, authorities mobilized 1,200 police personnel, with the area cordoned off for public safety. Access is restricted to authorized personnel only. The drive faced resistance, leading to the detention of 70 individuals attempting to obstruct the operation. The local government had previously targeted approximately three hectares of “illegally occupied land” behind the temple, aiming to remove unauthorized structures erected without permission.