AHMEDABAD: Authorities in Gujarat‘s Gir Somnath district have demolished a dargah, mosque, and graveyard that were over a thousand year old, citing an anti-encroachment drive.
The demolitions took place despite a recent Supreme Court order halting all demolitions unless prior court approval is granted. The tomb belonged to Haji Mangroli Shah and was located near Hazrat Maai Puri Masjid.
In addition to the mosque and graveyard, several concrete houses were also razed. Officials claimed the drive aimed to remove “illegal constructions” near the famous Somnath temple and facilitate the ambitious Somnath Development Project.
Authorities detained over 150 people protesting the demolitions, including members of the dargah committee.
Meanwhile, Kunal Kamra, a renowned Indian stand-up comedian, criticized the Modi government’s actions, particularly the practice of bulldozing the homes of poor people, mostly Muslims, stating that it contradicts India’s core values of justice and humanity.
In an interview, Kamra shared his thoughts on the concept of “the idea of India,” emphasizing that demolishing a poor person’s home punishes not just the individual but their entire family, highlighting the disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities.
This issue has sparked intense debates in India regarding legality, fairness, and the societal consequences for families who lose both their homes and livelihoods.
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