Gujarat’s Gir Somnath Sees Demolition of Illegal Structures Near Somnath Temple
In Gujarat’s Gir Somnath district, officials launched an anti-encroachment drive on Saturday, demolishing nine illegally constructed religious structures. The operation was carried out with heavy police presence to clear unauthorized constructions behind the Somnath temple and the circuit house area.
Details of the Operation
Superintendent of Police (SP) Manohar Singh Jadeja stated that around 150 people were detained during the operation, which will continue for two days. He mentioned, “Behind Somnath temple and the circuit house, there were many encroachments by anti-social elements. We have launched a demolition drive along with local administration. We have deployed 1,400 police personnel and detained around 150 people. Cases are being registered against them.”
Collector’s Statement
Gir Somnath Collector Digvijay Singh Jadeja added that despite issuing notices, the occupants were not ready to clear their encroachments, leaving authorities with no option but to launch a demolition drive. He said, “Nine religious structures and 45 rooms were being used as musafir khana. The land, valued at an estimated Rs 320 crore, has been cleared following due procedures. The demolition started early this morning, and 102 acres have already been cleared. We will complete the drive within two days.”
Doubts Revealed
Gujarat -: Gujarat is a state in western India. It is known for its rich culture, history, and beautiful places like the Gir Forest and Somnath Temple.
Gir Somnath -: Gir Somnath is a district in Gujarat. It is famous for the Gir Forest, home to Asiatic lions, and the Somnath Temple, a very important Hindu temple.
Illegal Structures -: Illegal structures are buildings or constructions that are made without permission from the government. They are not allowed and can be removed by officials.
Somnath Temple -: The Somnath Temple is a famous and ancient Hindu temple located in Gujarat. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines.
Circuit House -: A circuit house is a government guest house where officials stay when they visit a place for work. It is like a hotel but only for government workers.
Superintendent of Police -: The Superintendent of Police (SP) is a high-ranking officer in the police department. They are responsible for maintaining law and order in a district.
Collector -: A Collector is a senior government official in charge of administration in a district. They handle various tasks like revenue collection and law enforcement.
Detention -: Detention means holding someone in custody, usually by the police. It is done to keep people from causing trouble or breaking the law.
Anti-encroachment drive -: An anti-encroachment drive is an operation by the government to remove illegal buildings or structures from public or private land.
Rs 320 crore -: Rs 320 crore is a large amount of money in Indian currency. One crore is equal to ten million, so 320 crore is 3.2 billion rupees.