Interim findings submitted, but key questions remain in Surat’s Nasir Nagar demolition case

The inquiry into the controversial Nasir Nagar demolition in Surat has entered a crucial phase, with Central Zone Zonal Chief Ashish Nayak submitting an interim report of nearly 40 pages to the inquiry committee constituted by the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC).

Sources said the report includes details of officers and staff present at the site, relevant documents, logbook entries and preliminary findings related to the demolition operation.

However, no final conclusions have reportedly been drawn yet, leaving questions regarding accountability and possible action against officials unanswered.

The six-member committee was formed by the Municipal Commissioner following the controversy surrounding the demolition drive at Nasir Nagar on Ved Road. The committee had directed the Zonal Chief to submit records relating to the operation, details of personnel present at the site and a report containing clear findings by June 16.

Officials familiar with the matter said additional time was sought during the inquiry process due to delays in obtaining certain documents and records. The interim report has now been submitted to the committee chairman, based on available documents, logbooks and statements of officers and employees connected with the operation.

Sources indicated that verification of some documents and factual aspects is still underway. A more detailed final report containing specific findings and recommendations is expected to be submitted in the coming days, following which the process of fixing responsibility is likely to move forward.

The inquiry committee’s next meeting is now being closely watched. Discussions have begun over whether the committee will draw any preliminary conclusions based on the interim report or wait for the final findings before making recommendations to the Municipal Commissioner.

Several questions surrounding the demolition operation remain unresolved, including who was present at the site, how decisions were taken and where administrative responsibility ultimately lies. A clearer picture is expected to emerge only after the submission of the final report and the committee’s conclusions.

Employees Claim They Were Present Only for Demarcation Work

Meanwhile, fresh questions have emerged following alleged statements made by employees who were present during the Nasir Nagar operation.

According to sources, most Central Zone employees, in their explanations sought by Zonal Chief Ashish Nayak, stated that they had visited the site solely for line demarcation work. Their claims have sparked debate as they appear to differ from the Municipal Corporation’s official position.

Just two days ago, the Municipal Commissioner, through the civic body's official social media handle, clarified that both demarcation and demolition activities at Nasir Nagar were carried out by the Central Zone team.

The apparent contradiction between employee statements and the administration’s official version is expected to become a key aspect of the inquiry. If employees maintain that they were present only for demarcation while the civic body insists that the same team carried out demolition work, the committee may be required to examine the discrepancy in detail.

There has been no official confirmation on whether such statements by employees form part of the interim report submitted by the Zonal Chief. The inquiry committee is now expected to compare employee testimonies, available records and the Municipal Corporation’s official stand before arriving at its findings.