Gujarat demolitions for road expansion leave locals struggling
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Residents of Gujarat's Gomtipur area are reeling from a massive demolition drive carried out by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) under the pretext of road widening.
The action, which took place on February 22, led to the destruction of 160 structures, including two religious sites, triggering protests and outrage among locals.
Several Muslim families have been left without shelter following the demolitions. Expressing their frustration, a resident told BBC Gujarat, "They come and demolish our homes just like that. Where should we go with our little children?"
Another local condemned the move, stating, "Development should not come at the cost of destruction."
With Ramzan approaching, many residents are particularly concerned about how they will observe the holy month in such dire conditions. "With all this destruction around, how will we keep roza (fast) and perform prayers?" said an elderly resident.
According to Gomtipur councillor Iqbal Sheikh, the demolitions were conducted without prior notice, and those who protested were detained by the police, reported Times of India.
However, local authorities deny these claims.
Khodidas Chouhan, an official from AMC's estate department (Ahmedabad East Zone), asserted that notices had been issued beforehand. He stated that the demolition was part of an ongoing road widening project, which involved expanding a 15.25-meter road to 30.50 meters, leading to the removal of 45 residential and 115 commercial structures.
The demolition drive has raised legal concerns, especially in light of the Supreme Court’s ruling on November 13, 2023, which condemned "bulldozer justice" as "totally unconstitutional."
The apex court emphasised that authorities cannot act as judges, declare individuals guilty, and demolish their properties without due process. The court directed that demolitions cannot take place without prior show-cause notices. And residents must be given at least 15 days' notice before any action is taken.