Surat Authorities Launch Anti-Encroachment Drive Amid Communal Tensions

Surat civic authorities initiated an anti-encroachment drive in Saiyedpura, hours after riots broke out over the detention of minors accused of stone-pelting. The drive, pre-planned and unrelated to the violence, saw illegal structures and vendors' handcarts removed. Community tensions heightened, and multiple arrests ensued.

Surat civic authorities initiated an anti-encroachment drive in Saiyedpura on Monday, just hours after riots erupted over the detention of minors who had allegedly pelted stones at a Ganesh pandal.

Authorities clarified that the drive had been planned weeks in advance and was not in response to Sunday's violence. A bulldozer was employed to remove illegal constructions and street vendors' handcarts.

Community tensions surged when a mob of 200-300 individuals surrounded a police station, protesting against the detention of six minors. This resulted in stone-pelting that injured several, including police officers, and led to multiple arrests.

Deputy Mayor Narendra Patil emphasized that encroachment was a persistent issue in Saiyedpura, mainly a Muslim-majority area, and the decision to act had been made two weeks prior. Local corporators had long complained about blocked pathways due to illegal setups.

BJP leader Anil Patel supported the drive, urging for strict action against those inciting riots without cause.

(With inputs from agencies.)