Gujarat Government Defends Demolition of Encroachments in Gir Somnath
The Gujarat Government has defended its actions regarding the demolition of structures in Gir Somnath, stating that the lands were government-owned and located near the Arabian Sea. The government explained that the removal of encroachments is part of an ongoing effort to clear valuable government land.
In response to a petition by Summast Patni Musslim Jamat, the Gujarat Government submitted an affidavit to the Supreme Court, clarifying that the demolitions followed legal procedures. The petition accused the authorities of contempt for allegedly violating a court order dated September 17, which restricted demolitions without court approval.
The government argued that the petitioner had misrepresented the situation by giving it a communal angle. The affidavit detailed the phases of demolition, noting that both Hindu and Muslim encroachments were removed. Notices were issued to encroachers before the demolitions, as per the Gujarat Land Revenue Code.
The Supreme Court, while not halting the demolitions, warned that any contempt of its order would result in consequences for the officials involved. The petitioner, representing the Patni Muslim community, seeks to protect religious sites of historical significance, claiming that the demolitions were conducted without proper notice or hearings.
Doubts Revealed
Gujarat Government -: The Gujarat Government is the governing body of the state of Gujarat in India. It is responsible for making and enforcing laws in the state.
Demolition -: Demolition means tearing down or destroying buildings or structures. In this context, it refers to removing illegal constructions.
Encroachments -: Encroachments are unauthorized buildings or structures built on land that does not belong to the builder. It is like building a house on someone else’s property without permission.
Gir Somnath -: Gir Somnath is a district in the state of Gujarat, India. It is known for the Gir National Park, which is home to Asiatic lions.
Arabian Sea -: The Arabian Sea is a region of the northern Indian Ocean, located between the Indian subcontinent and the Arabian Peninsula. It is a large body of water.
Affidavit -: An affidavit is a written statement made under oath, used as evidence in court. It is like a promise to tell the truth in writing.
Supreme Court -: The Supreme Court is the highest judicial court in India. It makes important decisions on legal matters and ensures laws are followed.
Contempt -: Contempt in legal terms means disobeying or showing disrespect to a court’s order. It is like not listening to what the court has told you to do.
