Building temples is a way to grab the Govt lands : Gujarat HC

A temple will be demolished for the proposed road by the town planning department

New Delhi – Gujarat High Court noted that building temples has evolved into a way of acquiring Government land in India. This observation was noted during the hearing of a petition filed by the local Hindus in Ahmedabad, alleging that the administration had demolished a temple to facilitate the construction of a public road as part of town planning.

1. Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal remarked that such actions emotionally ‘blackmail’ individuals.

2. In this particular case, 93 households opposed the implementation of the town planning-driven road construction in their area. Despite the challenge, the judge dismissed their objections. The Municipal Corporation assured the Court that no residences would be demolished as part of this town planning initiative.

3.  Residents have rallied to support the temple, which stands in the path of the proposed road. They argue that the temple, funded through collective contributions, holds sentimental value for them.

4. The judge clarified that the land on which the temple is situated does not belong to the petitioners. As an interim measure, the Court directed the construction of a temple within one room of their homes, warning of potential demolition if not complied with. (Common citizens are speculating about the potential ramifications in Ahmedabad city if a similar order were issued against a minority place of worship ! – Editor). The next hearing for this case is scheduled for 14th March.

Editorial Perspective

In instances where Hindu temples are constructed in public places, Hindus typically adopt a conciliatory approach and shift their temples. Conversely, Dargahs have been built in the middle of the road at numerous locations across the country. It is an observed reality that local administration does not dare to oppose such construction. The citizens expect the judiciary to pay attention to this as well.