Dhandhuka: Authorities in Dhandhuka on Tuesday launched a demolition drive, using bulldozers to raze illegal structures allegedly linked to the accused in the recent murder of a local Hindu youth. The operation, carried out under heavy police deployment, targeted multiple illegal encroachments, including residential houses and commercial sheds.

The drive, led by the local administration in coordination with the police, covered around 15 identified illegal units. These included four houses in the Khatkiwad area and 14 shop sheds along the Dhandhuka–Bagodra highway. In addition to the demolition, Uttar Gujarat Vij Company Ltd (UGVCL) disconnected illegal electricity connections at the sites and initiated the process of filing FIRs related to power theft.

To maintain law and order, authorities deployed nearly 400 personnel, including three Deputy Superintendents of Police (DYSPs), 11 Police Inspectors (PIs), and 18 Police Sub-Inspectors (PSIs). Surveillance measures included drone monitoring, while State Reserve Police (SRP) companies from other districts were brought in as a precaution against any untoward incidents. Security arrangements were divided into two layers—one for general law and order and another dedicated to overseeing the demolition process.

Dhandhuka SDM Vidyasagar stated that due legal procedures had been completed before initiating the action. “Today, the administration is removing four illegal encroachments in Khatkiwad. All legal formalities have been completed. Additionally, illegal encroachments along the Dhandhuka–Bagodra Highway—from the flyover to Dhandhuka Square—will also be cleared. Encroachments identified near the residences of the accused in the Dharmesh Gamara murder case will be removed as well,” he said.

Officials reiterated that the demolition drive is part of routine administrative action against illegal encroachments and has been executed following due process, including identification by the Chief Officer and the City Survey Superintendent. The administration added that the drive will continue until all identified encroachments are cleared.

Meanwhile, in the murder case, police have arrested two accused Rizwan Maniyar and Samir Amdani and produced them before a local court in Dhandhuka. While investigators sought a 10-day remand, the court granted two days of police custody. Officials said the remand period will be used to interrogate the accused and establish the sequence of events.

Dharmesh Gamara was allegedly murdered two days ago, triggering arson and vandalism in parts of the area. DeshGujarat