Ahmedabad: The Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) today launched a demolition drive against illegal constructions on civic land in Motera Juna Village following directions from the Gujarat High Court, amid heavy police deployment and resistance from local residents.

The operation targeted unauthorised portions of 17 houses near Asaram Ashram in Motera Koteshwar village. Around 150 police personnel, including an ACP, five Police Inspectors and 10 Police Sub-Inspectors, were deployed to maintain law and order during the exercise.

According to AMC officials, the affected residents had been offered alternative accommodation and rental assistance, but the proposals were not accepted. Authorities said the demolition was being carried out strictly in compliance with court orders.

As AMC teams and police entered the area, residents staged protests, displaying property documents and attempting to stop the operation. Officials later announced over loudspeakers that occupants should vacate the premises within 30 minutes. Demolition work began after the deadline expired, with JCB machines moving into the area under tight security.

Tensions flared at several points during the operation. Police detained a youth after he allegedly threatened to commit suicide if his house was demolished. Minor scuffles were also reported between residents and AMC personnel, prompting police intervention.

Several affected families expressed distress over the action. A student preparing for a constable recruitment examination later this month said the demolition had disrupted her studies, while other residents raised concerns about relocation, rent assistance and the onset of the monsoon season.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Vani Dudhate said the land belongs to the AMC and that the issue has been the subject of a prolonged legal dispute. The civic body sought police assistance to ensure the demolition was carried out peacefully and without any untoward incidents.

Officials said the demolition was restricted to the portions marked as unauthorised. Further action will continue in accordance with the High Court’s directions. DeshGujarat