The Gujarat High Court has dismissed petitions seeking to declare illegal religious encroachments in Bet Dwarka as property of the Waqf Board. A total of 12 unauthorized religious structures were erected by unlawfully occupying government land under the guise of Waqf. Following the court’s verdict, the administration promptly initiated the removal process of these encroachments. Notably, for several months, authorities have been using bulldozers to clear illegally occupied government land in Bet Dwarka, successfully reclaiming a significant portion of land.
Court Upholds Government’s Anti-Encroachment Drive
Several petitions were filed in the Gujarat High Court to halt the ongoing government campaign in Bet Dwarka, located in Devbhoomi Dwarka. These petitions challenged the demolition of dargahs and mosques situated on government land. However, the High Court rejected all such petitions, allowing the administration to proceed with its clearance operation. Footage of bulldozers dismantling unauthorized structures has surfaced, depicting the ongoing efforts to remove illegal encroachments.
Seven Islands Cleared of Unauthorized Constructions
Recently, seven of the 21 uninhabited islands in the Devbhoomi Dwarka district were freed from illegal occupation. This crucial operation was carried out jointly by the police and the forest department. The islands—Khara Chusna, Meetha Chusna, Ashaba, Dhoryo, Dhabhbo, Samyani, and Bhaidar—witnessed the removal of 36 religious and commercial structures. Notably, 15 illegal constructions were completely demolished on Khara Chusna and Meetha Chusna islands.
DevBhoomi Dwarka!
— Harsh Sanghavi (@sanghaviharsh) January 21, 2025
The 7 islands of Dwarka district are NOW 100% encroachment-free!
A total of 36 illegal structures have been successfully removed from the seven islands.
Kudos to the Administration and team for their dedication and commitment to preserving our cultural… pic.twitter.com/cOU9AWfoPE
Large Land Areas Reclaimed
This administrative action was driven by concerns over India’s maritime security, as these islands hold strategic importance. Officials have launched an investigation into individuals responsible for the unauthorized constructions. The anti-encroachment campaign in Devbhoomi Dwarka district has been ongoing for several months, leading to the reclamation of several acres of land. Gujarat’s State Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi also shared updates on social media, highlighting the successful removal of illegal encroachments.