Supreme Court Demands Gujarat Explanation Over Alleged Demolition of Religious Sites

The Supreme Court has requested a response from the Gujarat Government regarding accusations of contempt for demolishing religious sites in Gir Somnath. Though the demolition proceeds, the court has warned of severe consequences if its previous order is violated, including potential imprisonment of officials and restoration orders.

The Supreme Court has directed the Gujarat Government to respond to allegations of contempt arising from the alleged demolition of religious sites in Gir Somnath. This comes amid accusations of unauthorized demolitions carried out by state authorities, including that of the historic Dargah.

A bench comprising Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan addressed the developments on Friday. While declining to halt the demolition, the court highlighted that it would impose strict penalties if officials were found in contempt of its mandate. The issue is set to be revisited on October 16, with Solicitor General Tushar Mehta asserting that the proceedings adhered to legal procedures.

The petition filed by Summast Patni Musslim Jamat claims Gujarat's actions defied a September directive aimed at halting arbitrary demolitions nationwide. The trust emphasizes the historical and spiritual value of the sites such as Haji Mangroli Shah Baba's tomb. The judiciary remains poised to act decisively should further breaches occur.

(With inputs from agencies.)