SC Declines to Halt Bulldozer Operation Near Somnath Temple
The petition claims that large-scale demolitions occurred near the Somnath temple, prompting the current legal challenge.
The Supreme Court has refused to stay the ongoing bulldozer action near Somnath temple, awaiting the Gujarat government’s response. The court issued a notice to the state and scheduled the next hearing for October 16. The court warned, “If we find officials in contempt of court, we will not only send them to jail but also order restoration of the status quo.”
A contempt petition was filed, accusing Gir Somnath officials of violating a previous SC order by continuing the demolitions. The petition seeks action against the district collector and other authorities.
On September 17, the Supreme Court had placed a temporary ban on “bulldozer justice,” stating that no demolition could take place without court permission, except for encroachments on public roads, footpaths, or railways. Despite this, the petition claims that large-scale demolitions occurred near the Somnath temple, prompting the current legal challenge.
The court’s next move depends on the Gujarat government’s explanation, as the case continues to unfold.
