The recent demolition of religious sites in Gir Somnath, Gujarat, has drawn significant attention, prompting the Supreme Court to seek a response from the state government.
This action comes after allegations that local authorities have demolished a dargah and other places of worship without proper procedures. The court has refused to stay the demolition but made it clear that if it finds any officials in contempt of its orders, it will take strict action, including possible jail time and restoration of the structures.
A bench comprising Justices B.R. Gavai and K.V. Viswanathan was hearing a plea that sought to initiate contempt proceedings against Gujarat officials for allegedly violating a previous court order.
The Supreme Court had previously directed that no demolitions should occur without its permission, a directive that has been challenged by the current actions taken by the Gujarat government.
The matter is set for further hearing on October 16, and during this session, the Supreme Court sought a response from the state rather than issuing a notice to the authorities.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta represented the government, stating that the eviction proceedings began in 2023 and that the land in question belongs to the state. He emphasised that the structures demolished were near a water body and that the government had followed due process in this matter.
Advocates representing the petitioners argued for maintaining the status quo, indicating that the demolition of these sites, which include mosques, dargahs, and residential properties of caretakers, occurred in the early morning without any notification or opportunity for the affected parties to respond.
The petitioners contend that this action demonstrates blatant disregard for the court's authority and undermines public trust in the judicial system.
The petition was filed by the Samast Patni Muslim Jamaat, which represents the local Muslim community, seeking to protect religious sites of historical and spiritual significance.
The petition highlights the importance of these structures, including the tomb of Haji Mangroli Shah Baba, which has served the local Muslim community for over a century.
The trust contends that the ownership and usage of these sites have been settled through legal resolutions dating back to 1903, further asserting their historical significance.
The Supreme Court's decision to ask the Gujarat government for a reply emphasises the judiciary's role in safeguarding the rights of religious communities and ensuring that demolitions are conducted lawfully. The court's refusal to stay the demolition indicates its need for careful consideration of the facts before making a definitive ruling.
This situation raises broader concerns about the treatment of religious minorities in India and the protection of places of worship. Many view these sites as essential to their cultural and spiritual identity, and the demolition of such places without due process can be seen as a threat to their heritage.
As the Supreme Court continues to monitor this case, the outcome will likely have significant implications for the rights of religious communities in India, particularly in cases involving alleged unlawful demolitions.
The next hearing on October 16 will be crucial in determining the future of these religious sites and the accountability of the officials involved in their demolition.
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