Dehgam: Following the recent stone-pelting and arson by Muslim mob during Navratri celebrations in Bahiyal village, the administration has initiated action against illegal constructions in the area. Notices have been issued by the Roads and Buildings Department (Panchayat) to approximately 190 property owners along the Bahiyal-Hathijan road, giving them an ultimatum to submit proof of legal construction by Wednesday evening.

Officials have warned that failure to comply will result in demolition action. Reports indicate that some property owners have already started removing goods from shops in response to the notices. The notices pertain to illegal constructions along the Raipur, Karoli, and Ghamij areas of the Bahiyal-Hathijan road and instruct owners to provide legal documentation for their structures.

The administration has stated that a deadline has been set, and demolition work will commence if valid proof is not submitted. Circle officers have been tasked with investigating encroachments on village land, government property, and internal areas, following which the Taluka Panchayat will issue additional notices.

According to the Talati of Bahiyal village, a list of 170 encroachments has been prepared, although local discussions suggest that over 200 illegal structures may exist in the area. Officials emphasized that a comprehensive survey of the affected lands will guide further action to prevent illegal occupation and maintain law and order.

Meanwhile, a letter claiming that Afsanabanu Chauhan, the Sarpanch of Bahiyal village in Dehgam taluka, has resigned from her post was sent via WhatsApp to Taluka Panchayat officer Pankajsinh Mehida. However, the letter was not considered valid, as the resignation message was reportedly sent by the Sarpanch’s husband, Sajjad Husain, rather than directly by her. The Taluka Development Officer clarified that a resignation must be submitted personally to be legally recognized. DeshGujarat