Residents protest AMC demolition drive in Motera, tension escalates near Asaram Ashram

Tension prevailed in Ahmedabad’s Motera area on Saturday after residents staged a strong protest against a demolition drive launched by the Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) to remove allegedly illegal constructions near the Asaram Ashram locality.

The situation turned volatile when AMC officials, accompanied by a police contingent, arrived to carry out the demolition of around 36 structures said to have been constructed without the required permissions. However, local residents gathered in large numbers and opposed the action, preventing officials from entering parts of the village area.

According to sources, several residents alleged that they had not been provided with adequate alternatives and demanded that the civic body halt the demolition process. Protesters raised slogans against the authorities and some reportedly threatened self-immolation if the demolition was carried out.

The standoff created a highly charged atmosphere, with the area witnessing heavy police deployment as officials attempted to maintain law and order. To prevent any untoward incident, nearly 150 police personnel, including ACPs, Police Inspectors and other staff members, were deployed in the area.

The demolition drive was part of the civic body's ongoing campaign against unauthorised constructions across the city. Officials had reportedly identified around 36 structures in the locality as illegal and scheduled them for removal.

Senior police officers and AMC officials remained at the spot to negotiate with residents and prevent any untoward incident. Authorities urged protesters to maintain peace and assured them that their representations would be considered through the appropriate legal channels.

No injuries or arrests had been reported till the time of filing this report. However, the situation remained tense, with security personnel continuing to monitor the area closely.

Further details regarding the demolition action and the residents' objections are awaited from civic authorities.