In a directive issued on Monday, the Supreme Court outlined specifications for a compound wall near the historic Somnath Temple in Gujarat, stating that it should not exceed five to six feet in height. This decision comes amidst concerns to curb unauthorized encroachments without creating imposing barriers.
A bench comprising Justices B R Gavai and Augustine George Masih addressed the matter after the Gujarat government informed them of the ongoing construction intended to protect government land from encroachment. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the state, assured that the construction was a preventive measure and not meant to be overly restrictive.
Justice Gavai emphasized the need for moderation in the wall’s height. “Don’t have a 12 feet wall. If you are protecting it, five feet, six feet is enough,” he remarked during the proceedings.
The discussion took a contentious turn when senior advocate Sanjay Hegde, representing the petitioner, argued that the authorities were altering the status quo by constructing a taller wall. Mehta countered these claims, referring to his prior statements in court where he had asserted no activities, including Hindu religious rituals, were permitted on the contested land.
In a lighter exchange, Justice Gavai commented on the exaggerated fears of an overly secretive construction, saying, “Why would you not know? There are drones available everywhere now,” addressing concerns about the lack of transparency.
The bench scheduled further hearings for May 20, leaving room for the petitioner to approach the court if additional unauthorized constructions were carried out.
This ruling follows a series of legal skirmishes over unauthorized constructions in Gujarat’s Gir Somnath district. The state government’s demolition drive, which included the razing of a Muslim shrine and subsequent legal battles, has been a point of significant legal and communal discussion.
