Ban on Gatherings of 4 in Veraval-Prabhas Patan: Bulldozers in Somnath, 135 Arrested
A massive demolition operation has been initiated near the world-famous Somnath Temple from early morning. Numerous encroachments, including over six religious sites, are being removed using JCBs, Hitachi machines, and dumpers. District Collector Digvijaysinh Jadeja, Range IG Nilesh Zanzadiya, and SP Manoharsinh Jadeja, along with other senior officials, have been present at the site since morning, overseeing the operation. As this two-day demolition proceeds, the Collector has enforced Section 223 of the Indian Penal Code, prohibiting gatherings of more than four people. Currently, around 15 hectares of government land, estimated to be worth ₹60 crores, has been cleared.
Police Force Deployed
Since last night, as authorities began the exercise to remove religious encroachments near Somnath Temple, large crowds from a specific community had gathered. To manage the situation, the authorities explained the action to the public and dispersed them from the site. Starting early this morning at 5 a.m., senior officials, including Additional District Magistrates, Executive Magistrates, Range IG, and SPs, along with 788 police and SRPF personnel, were deployed. So far, approximately 135 people have been detained. Encroachments of nine mosques and 45 solid houses have been cleared, and law and order have been maintained. Around 15 hectares of government land, valued at ₹60 crores, has been freed.
Prohibition on Gatherings of Four or More People
Amid the ongoing mega demolition in Somnath, a tense calm prevails. The District Collector has issued a public notice prohibiting the gathering of four or more people in Veraval and Prabhas Patan urban areas from September 28 to September 30, 2024. Those violating this order will be subject to penalties under Section 223 of the Indian Penal Code and Section 66(A) of the IT Act. Complaints will be filed against violators of this public notice.
Demolition Carried Out at These Sites
- Haji Mangrolisha Peer
- Hazrat Maipuri
- Sipe Salar
- Mastansha Bapu
- Zafar Muzaffar
- Idgah
Somnath’s Largest Mega Demolition in History
Today, the largest mega demolition in Somnath’s history began at 5 a.m. using 30 JCBs, 5 Hitachis, 50 tractors, and 10 dumpers to remove the encroachments. During the early morning operation, over 135 people were detained. Revenue, electricity, PWD, and other relevant department officers and staff were also deployed at the site.
Encroached Areas Cordoned Off
To prevent any untoward incidents during the demolition, the encroached areas have been cordoned off by police from all sides since morning. Barricades have been placed at entry points such as Bhidiya Circle and Goodluck Circle of Somnath, and traffic for people and vehicles has been restricted. SRP and police forces have been deployed at various sensitive points in Veraval-Somnath city.
