Over 50 illegal Muslim sites standing on Govt land demolished in Somnath (Gujarat)

• Largest operation in the nation till date against illegal constructions

• Muslims remain present in large number during the operation

Somnath (Gujarat) – Illegal mosques and other religious structures were built on Government land just 1.5 km away from the famous Somnath temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The administration has since demolished them. On 27th September, an operation was carried out using more than 35 bulldozers, demolishing over 50 illegal religious sites, buildings, and other constructions spread across 102 acres, marking the largest crackdown on illegal constructions in the country.

Similar to the Mahakal Corridor in Ujjain, a corridor is set to be developed in Somnath. Despite prior notices from the administration, the illegal structures were not removed, prompting this operation. Many Muslims gathered at the site during the demolition, and to maintain order, 1,400 Police personnel were deployed.

Illegal constructions had been taking place on Government land near the Somnath temple for several years. (Was the administration asleep while these illegal constructions were getting erected on Government land ? – Editor). Bulldozers, hundreds of tractors, and dumpers were deployed during the operation.

Congress attempts to defend the illegal constructions

To defend the illegal constructions, Gujarat Congress Vice President Nusrat Panja stated that the demolished structures were 700 to 800 years old and had special protection during the reign of the Nawab of Junagadh. She argued that these were Waqf properties and that the District Collector and Government had misinterpreted the Court’s order, leading to the demolition.

Illegal structures not removed despite notices : District Collector D D Jadeja

District Collector D.D. Jadeja clarified that notices had been issued long ago to clear the illegal encroachments in Somnath. Additional time was granted to vacate the land, yet the encroachments remained. The Police arrested 120 individuals who resisted the operation.

Somnath Corridor project expected to gain momentum

A corridor will also be constructed in Somnath. Approval has been granted by the Union Government for this. Various development projects are underway for the Somnath temple. This operation is likely to expedite the corridor’s progress.

Editorial Perspectives

• Congratulations to the BJP Government for taking decisive action. The devout Hindu community believes that the Gujarat Government should establish such control, that no one will dare to construct illegal religious sites in the future.

• What else can be expected from Congress, which constantly appeases Muslims ?