Despite the Supreme Court’s observation, homes targeted in the demolition drive
Team Clarion
SURAT — In clear violation of the recent Supreme Court observations against “bulldozer justice,” authorities in Gujarat’s Surat city have launched a demolition drive in Syedpura area which witnessed stone pelting on Ganesh Pandal on Sunday.
The Surat District Police initiated a demolition drive on Monday, targeting what they claimed were illegal encroachments in the area. The authorities, however, clarified that the anti-encroachment drive was not linked to the rioting as it was planned weeks in advance.
The Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) deployed bulldozers in the area to raze illegal concrete and temporary constructions.
The municipal body also removed handcarts of street vendors in the area.
Surat Deputy Mayor Narendra Patil said that the anti-encroachment drive had been planned some two weeks ago, and was not the outcome of the Sunday’s clash.
Tension gripped Syedpura as residents, angered by the alleged stone pelting, took to the streets, demanding immediate action against those responsible.
Police responded swiftly, arresting more than 30 individuals in connection with the incident. Among those detained are six persons accused of directly participating in the stone pelting, with Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Singhvi confirming their arrests. “We have arrested six individuals involved in the stone pelting and 27 others who were inciting the act. Investigations are ongoing, and we will ensure that strict action is taken against those who disturb the peace,” Singhvi stated during a media briefing.
Surat DCP Bhagirath Garhvi said there was stone pelting here on Sunday, and since then, the police have been deployed in the area. The situation is now peaceful.
Residents have reported instances where locks of their homes were forcibly broken, leading to further tension in the community.
A viral video showing police mistreatment of those arrested has added fuel to the fire. The video has drawn criticism from social activists, with prominent social worker Samiullah Khan questioning the rule of law. “This is not justice. The authorities must ensure that their actions align with the principles of fairness and due process,” Khan said in a statement.
On the other hand, supporters of Hindu organisations have praised the police’s response, with some sharing the video as evidence of law enforcement taking firm action against the accused.
The situation remains tense, with a large police presence in the area to prevent further escalation. Surat Police Commissioner Anupam Singh Gehlot provided additional details, stating that the initial stone pelting was reportedly carried out by a group of children, which then spiralled into a larger clash. “We have deployed 1,000 police personnel in the area to maintain peace and ensure that the situation remains under control,” Gehlot said.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on maintaining order in the community while addressing the underlying issues that have led to such unrest.
