Gujarat HC dismisses Asaram Ashram’s plea against land acquisition by govt

The division bench of Gujarat High Court has cleared the way for the state government to reclaim over 45,000 square metres of prime land from the Motera Asaram Ashram.

The land, valued around ₹500 crore and located adjacent to the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium and Sardar Patel Sports Complex, was originally allotted decades ago for limited religious purposes only, with strict conditions prohibiting commercial activities, unauthorised expansions, or constructions beyond the permitted area.

The Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) had earlier rejected applications to legalise more than 30 such illegal buildings, deeming them ineligible for regularisation… It rejected attempts to legitimise the occupation of public land, paving the way for the government to take possession and remove the unauthorised structures.

This strategic parcel of land holds significant importance as Ahmedabad gears up to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, with plans also in place for future Olympic-level events.

Officials have indicated that the reclaimed area will be integrated into larger sports infrastructure projects, including the proposed Sardar Patel Sports Enclave, Olympic Village, and other facilities spanning nearly 650 acres in the vicinity.