As many as 30 illegal constructions are demolished on the second day of the mega demolition drive taken up by the authorities in Beyt Dwarka, one of the most revered places in Hinduism.
The mega drive comes soon after centre took the decision to ban PFI, the controversial association with hardcore Islamic leaning. The location of Beyt Dwarka is quite strategic. Located just 58 nautical miles from Karachi on the coast, Beyt Dwarka could not be ignored by government agencies. Beyt Dwarka is located 7 nautical miles from the Okha port and is on the direct sea route to Pakistan.
Over several decades, Beyt Dwarka saw several religious encroachments all over the place. Despite, it being one of the holiest places for Hindus, the Muslim population on the Beyt was sizeable. However, most Muslims living on the beyt are from lower middle class to poor social strata, indulging mainly as ferry workers between Dwarka and Beyt Dwarka and small shopkeepers, living on the largesse of Hindu pilgrims.
The demolition drive has the national security aspect. Neglect of officials over the years had seen major encroachments on government land. The drive demolished the encroachment under the protection of a huge police force. A 700-Strong police Force, Including SRP, was deployed. As much as 55000 sq feet of land has been cleared from illegal construction.
Dwarka Superintendent of Police Nitesh Pandey said around 22 illegal properties were demolished in Bet Dwarka. The places demolished include six religious ones and 15 commercial establishments.
Officials from the Revenue Department, Forest Department, Gujarat Maritime Board and Okha Nagar Palika were also present during the demolition.
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