Surat Demolition Drive: Gujarat HC Pulls Up government, Police and SMC Over Nasirnagar Action

The Gujarat High Court once again pulled up the state government, Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) and police over the controversial demolition of illegal structures in Nasirnagar, Surat .

The matter relates to the demolition of more than 100 houses in the Nasirnagar area of Ved Darwaja in May. The demolition had triggered a legal battle after residents alleged that the structures were razed without following due process. The High Court has been examining the roles of the state administration, Surat police and civic authorities in the episode.

During the latest hearing, the court strongly criticised the authorities and warned that senior officials could face serious consequences if they failed to provide proper and accurate answers before the court.

The court observed that if responsible senior officials failed to comply with its directions, they could potentially face loss of service and personal financial liability for expenses arising from the matter.

The court also made it clear that public money should not be used to cover expenses resulting from the actions or lapses of government officials.