The Gujarat High Court was recently informed by the state government that a total of 604 unauthorized religious structures had been removed across the state. This development occurred in response to the court’s earlier directives aimed at addressing the issue of illegal religious constructions on public lands. The removal of these structures reflects the state's efforts to comply with court orders while balancing the sensitivities surrounding religious sites. The court’s intervention underscores the importance of maintaining public order and ensuring that public spaces are utilized in accordance with the law.
Background: The Issue of Unauthorized Religious Structures
The case arose when several unauthorized religious structures were constructed on public and government lands, obstructing roadways, public utilities, and creating safety hazards. Public interest litigations (PILs) were filed, prompting the Gujarat High Court to take cognizance of the issue. The court issued orders to the state government, directing it to remove all unauthorized religious structures that were built without proper approval. The court emphasized that while religious freedom is a fundamental right, it does not extend to encroachments on public property, which must be regulated for the greater good.
State Government’s Compliance and Response
In its recent submission to the Gujarat High Court, the state government reported that it had taken action against unauthorized religious structures and successfully removed 604 such constructions. The government outlined its approach, explaining that a comprehensive survey was conducted to identify all illegal constructions across the state. The process involved consultations with local authorities and religious leaders to ensure that the demolitions were carried out with minimal disruption and in a sensitive manner.
The government emphasized that while it respected the religious sentiments associated with these structures, public interest and safety had to be prioritized. Many of these unauthorized constructions were found to be obstructing road expansions, posing risks to public safety, or hindering the development of infrastructure projects. In some cases, alternative sites were provided for religious activities, ensuring that the faithful were not deprived of places of worship.
Court’s Observations and Future Directives
The Gujarat High Court, in response to the state’s report, acknowledged the steps taken but urged continued vigilance in ensuring that no new unauthorized religious structures are erected in the future. The court stressed that public land must be preserved for communal use and development, and encroachments—regardless of religious affiliations—cannot be tolerated. The court also noted that local authorities should work closely with community leaders to prevent future conflicts and avoid the construction of illegal structures.
Additionally, the court directed the state to submit periodic reports detailing the status of unauthorized structures and the actions taken to address them. The court made it clear that it would continue to monitor the situation to ensure compliance with its orders.
Conclusion
The removal of 604 unauthorized religious structures in Gujarat marks a significant step towards enforcing the rule of law and preserving public land. The Gujarat High Court’s involvement in this issue highlights the judiciary’s role in ensuring that religious sentiments do not override legal and civic obligations. This ruling is likely to set a precedent for similar cases in other states, reinforcing the importance of safeguarding public spaces while maintaining respect for religious practices. The court's directives for continued oversight ensure that the issue remains a priority, preventing the recurrence of such illegal constructions.
0 Comments
Thank you for your response. It will help us to improve in the future.