Amitha Muraleedharan
The bench headed by Justice Ashok Bhushan of the Apex Court allowed the Uttarakhand government to demolish four illegal religious structures on public land in Haridwar.
The court granted the extension of time till May 31, 2021.
Opposing the decision, the counsel for Akhada Parishad argued that the classification of the structure could not be concluded unauthorized under Uttarakhand rules.
But, the court rejected the argument.
Representing the state, the Solicitor General contended that he had discussed the matter with the Chief Secretary.
The court said that,
“We are of the view that the state should be permitted to remove the illegal structures by May 2021.”
It also ordered all states to demolish illegal religious structures, saying in the name of gods and religion, no unauthorized construction can be allowed on streets, parks and other public places.
The High Court of Uttarakhand has also been hearing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in removing the illegal religious structures built on public land.
The state sought an extension of time only because of the Kumbha Mela held in January 2020.
The court directed the High court to take the initiative to ensure implementation of the order effectively.