In a largescale demolition drive, the Dwarka district administration in Gujarat has razed the Hazrat Panj Peer Dargah and over 200 houses deemed as illegal encroachments. The dargah, located in Okha, was reportedly constructed on a piece of land owned by the Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB)
As per a report by the Indian Express, authorities claim the move is part of efforts to clear thousands of square metres of government land in Bet Dwarka. The operation also extended to Pirotan Island, where encroachments spread over approximately 4,000 square feet were demolished. Officials cited concerns over national security, environmental impact on the marine ecosystem, and potential threats to vital industries.
Pirotan Island, a part of the Marine National Park and critical for coral reef conservation, is near key infrastructure supplying 60% of the country’s crude oil. Officials stated that unauthorised structures and activities posed risks to marine life and hinted at demographic shifts due to the increased presence of illegal religious structures.
In a social media post, Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi emphasised the state’s commitment to protecting cultural and environmental heritage, calling Bet Dwarka “the land of faith for crores of people.” He declared that the Bhupendra Patel-led government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward illegal encroachments, particularly on areas of religious significance like “Krishna’s land.”
The operation involved over 1,000 personnel, including senior police and administrative officials. The district police chief supervised the process on-site, while drone cameras monitored the demolitions.
The drive, described as methodical and extensively planned, is ongoing, with authorities estimating significant time required to clear all encroachments due to the large number of structures involved.
