Surat Demolition Drive: Gujarat HC Pulls Up Govt, Police and SMC Over Nasirnagar Action

The Gujarat High Court once again pulled up the state government, Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) and police over the controversial demolition of illegal structures in Nasirnagar, Surat.

The matter relates to the demolition of more than 100 houses in the Nasirnagar area of Ved Darwaja in May. The demolition had triggered a legal battle after residents alleged that the structures were razed without following due process. The High Court has been examining the roles of the state administration, Surat police and civic authorities in the episode.

During the latest hearing, the court strongly criticised the authorities and warned that senior officials could face serious consequences if they failed to provide proper and accurate answers before the court.

HC warns officials of personal liability

The court observed that if responsible senior officials failed to comply with its directions, they could potentially face loss of service and personal financial liability for expenses arising from the matter.

The court also made it clear that public money should not be used to cover expenses resulting from the actions or lapses of government officials.

The High Court's observations came amid continuing scrutiny over the circumstances surrounding the Nasirnagar demolition. Earlier proceedings had highlighted conflicting positions taken by the civic authorities and police over who authorised the demolition.

Controversial demolition under court scrutiny

The demolition in Nasirnagar displaced more than 100 families. The Surat civic administration had initially denied ordering the demolition, while subsequent proceedings and an official inquiry brought the role of civic officials under greater scrutiny. Several SMC engineers were later suspended following the controversy.

The High Court has also sought accountability from the authorities and directed the civic body to address the rehabilitation of residents affected by the demolition.

The matter remains under consideration before the Gujarat High Court, with the court seeking clear responses from the concerned authorities regarding the demolition and responsibility for the action.