Gujarat Intensifies Action Against Illegal Structures Linked to Criminals and Bangladeshi Intruders

Major Demolition Campaign in Gujarat

In Gujarat, authorities are taking decisive measures against properties associated with history-sheeters and Bangladeshi intruders. Following the demolition of over 60 properties linked to 38 history-sheeters in Rajkot on Monday, a significant crackdown on illegal Bangladeshi immigrants is underway in Ahmedabad. The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation has initiated the second phase of its demolition campaign, targeting illegal encroachments across more than 250,000 square meters in the Chandola area. This operation is being described as the largest bulldozer action to date, with 25 companies of the State Reserve Police and 3,000 police personnel deployed. Drone surveillance is also being utilized to monitor the area. All constructions in this region are deemed illegal, leading to their removal, and it is often referred to as 'Mini Bangladesh.'

Details of the Rajkot Operation

Regarding the actions taken in Rajkot, police officials revealed that residents of the targeted homes received two notices a month prior to the demolitions. The properties demolished were linked to serious offenses, including murder, theft, and violations of liquor laws. The Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone II) stated, "We cleared 2,610 square meters of government land, valued at ₹6.52 crores." Other officials noted that this operation is part of a broader initiative against illegal constructions.

Government's Commitment to Eradicate Illegal Activities

Gujarat's Home Minister, Harsh Sanghvi, reaffirmed the government's commitment, stating, "The state government and police are resolute that any criminal activity or encroachment on state land will not be tolerated... All locations in Rajkot that have become centers for illegal activities will be demolished."

Continued Efforts in Chandola Area

It is worth noting that following several significant bulldozer actions in Saurashtra, the area around Chandola Lake in Ahmedabad was cleared of over 2,000 illegal constructions. The current bulldozer operation, referred to as Part-2, is expected to last for three days. Meanwhile, Ahmedabad Police Commissioner G.S. Malik reported that 250 Bangladeshi nationals have been apprehended this year, with 207 of them from the Chandola Lake area. Over 200 of these individuals have already been deported.

Environmental Concerns and Illegal Settlements

Chandola Lake is one of the largest lakes in Ahmedabad. During a survey aimed at beautifying the surrounding areas, it was discovered that illegal immigrants from Bangladesh had settled there. These individuals not only constructed homes but also contributed to pollution by dumping waste into the lake. Investigations revealed that individuals like Lalla Bihari, also known as Mahboob Pathan, and Kalu Momin were involved in creating fake documents for these Bangladeshi immigrants, facilitating their settlement. Consequently, the identification and demolition of illegal structures commenced.