Bhuj, Gujarat: The Association for Protection of Civil Rights (APCR) Gujarat has secured significant interim relief from the Gujarat High Court. The order has stayed coercive action, including the proposed demolition of four Muslim religious sites in Mundra Taluka, Kutch district. The order reinforces the fundamental principles of due process and the rule of law.
Over the past several months, several Muslim religious sites across Kutch, including mosques, dargahs, and other places of worship, have been subjected to demolition proceedings and other administrative actions. The issuance of notices to these institutions has caused widespread concern among residents.
In response, APCR Gujarat extended legal assistance to the management committees of the affected religious sites. Working closely with the Muslim Yuva Core Committee – Kutch, APCR coordinated legal representation, assisted with documentation, and supported the affected parties throughout the proceedings before the Gujarat High Court.
The matter arose after the Mamlatdar of Mundra Taluka issued orders under Section 61 of the Gujarat Land Revenue Act, 1879, directing the removal of structures at four religious sites within just five days.
Appearing before the High Court, the petitioners argued that the Gujarat Land Revenue Act provides a statutory right to appeal against such orders and prescribes a limitation period of 90 days. Allowing only five days to comply with the demolition orders, effectively denied the affected parties their statutory right to seek appellate relief and violated the principles of natural justice.
After hearing the submissions of both sides, Justice Aniruddha P. Mayee granted interim protection. The Court observed that the petitioners are entitled to exercise their statutory right of appeal and directed that no coercive action, including demolition, shall be taken against the four religious sites until the statutory period for filing an appeal expires or the competent appellate authority decides the matter.
The order provides immediate relief to the affected religious sites and serves as an important reaffirmation that executive action must be carried out within the framework of the Constitution, statutory safeguards, and established legal procedure.
APCR remains committed to providing legal assistance to individuals and communities facing arbitrary or unlawful administrative action. The organisation will continue to stand with those whose constitutional and legal rights are at risk, ensuring that access to justice is available regardless of social or religious identity.
APCR Gujarat also acknowledged the invaluable support of the Muslim Yuva Core Committee, Kutch, whose coordination with the affected parties, assistance in preparing documentation, and continuous engagement throughout the litigation played an important role in securing timely judicial relief.
