Supreme Court Halts Gujarat Demolitions: A Controversial Stand-Off

The Supreme Court deliberates over alleged illegal demolitions of Muslim religious structures in Gujarat. The government retains land possession amidst disputes but denies third-party allocation. The controversy includes accusations of targeting specific communities, with interim orders pending further resolution.

The Supreme Court of India has intervened in a controversial case regarding the demolition of alleged illegally constructed Muslim religious structures in Gujarat's Gir Somnath district. Government officials have assured the court that the land in question will not be allocated to third parties until a verdict is reached.

The judicial proceedings began following an appeal against a Gujarat High Court decision, which refused to halt ongoing demolitions. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the state government, declared that only unprotected encroachments were targeted, sparking heated discussions about community-specific demolitions.

The case highlights serious allegations of religious bias, as temples reportedly remain untouched. The Court will further hear the case and has promised to restore any structures if violations of interim orders are confirmed. The next hearing is scheduled for November 11.

(With inputs from agencies.)