Surat demolition drive: Gujarat HC seeks explanation from civic body chief over razing of 150 houses

The Gujarat High Court has sought an explanation from the Surat Municipal Commissioner and senior police officials over the demolition of more than 150 houses in Surat’s Nasir Nagar, observing that even a single house cannot be demolished without following the due process of law.

Hearing a petition challenging the demolition drive, Justice Nikhil Kariel directed the state government to produce evidence showing that the demolitions were carried out in accordance with legal procedures. 

The court warned that if the action is found to have been carried out without authorisation or due process, all concerned senior officials will have to appear before the court.

The high court has directed the Surat Municipal Commissioner and senior police officials to file their responses by Monday.

“This is a serious matter. We cannot keep our eyes closed,” the court observed, adding that both the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) and the state government would be accountable for the action. The court also asked the government to explain the steps it had taken in the matter.

Appearing for the petitioners, advocate Trusha Patel submitted that around 150 houses were demolished without prior notice despite the presence of senior municipal and police officials.

The high court cautioned that if it is established that officials demolished the houses of vulnerable residents without following the prescribed legal procedure, they would have to face the consequences.

The court further observed that the recent directions issued by the Supreme Court regarding the removal of encroachments must be strictly complied with.

The court also directed that Torrent Power be implemented as a party in the case.

The matter has been posted for further hearing on Monday, when the state government and civic authorities are expected to submit their responses.