Surat: A fresh controversy has surfaced in the Old City (Kot) area of Surat over the implementation of the Disturbed Areas Act, with local residents alleging hardship and selective enforcement of the law.

Residents claim that many properties in the Kot locality have remained in their families’ possession for generations, with most households following the traditional joint family system. However, as families have expanded over time, accommodating all members in a single house has become increasingly difficult. Space constraints, they say, have led to mounting daily inconveniences.

According to representations submitted by residents, several families are facing delays in arranging marriages for younger members due to inadequate housing. In some cases, urgent financial needs arising from medical emergencies have left families with no option but to consider selling their properties.

Locals argue that the sale of ancestral properties has become necessary not only to meet health-related expenses but also to facilitate division among brothers and enable separate living arrangements. They contend that proceeds from such sales would allow them to purchase larger and better-equipped homes elsewhere.

On Thursday, residents approached authorities ranging from the Sub-Divisional Magistrate to the police department, seeking greater flexibility in granting permission for property transactions under the Disturbed Areas Act. They urged the administration to take a pragmatic view of genuine family requirements.

Residents also alleged unequal enforcement of the law. “If the Act is to be implemented, it must apply uniformly to all,” one petitioner said, questioning why ordinary citizens allegedly face strict scrutiny while influential property holders are spared similar action. They further claimed that in some cases, notices are issued but no subsequent action follows.

Calling for transparency and fairness, residents said that when families are compelled by necessity to sell their homes, the administration has a responsibility to ensure they are not subjected to undue harassment. DeshGujarat