The demolition drive followed a July 14 Supreme Court order directing the removal of unauthorized commercial structures built on residential plots. Officials carried out the action with heavy police deployment after the owners ignored notices issued in connection with the structures.
The demolition came despite 11 months of protests by traders and residents and promises from politicians that action would be deferred until the next court hearing on September 21. The demolition crews nevertheless proceeded with the drive, bringing down the six buildings and the commercial establishments operating from them.
Traders and residents wept as the demolition destroyed properties connected to years of work. The action also drew attention on social media, where posts highlighted the human toll on long-time Hindu residents and BJP supporters in the area.
The demolition marks the enforcement of the Supreme Court order against the unauthorized commercial structures, while the affected traders and residents face the immediate impact of the action ahead of the September 21 court hearing.
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