Why Were Over 150 Illegal Shops Demolished in Ajmer's Dargah Area?
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Synopsis
In a bold move to reclaim public space and restore access for devotees, Ajmer's Dargah area witnessed the demolition of over 150 illegal shops. This significant action, taken by the Forest Department and District Administration, highlights a commitment to preserving the area's historical integrity while ensuring public safety.
Key Takeaways
- The operation successfully removed over 150 illegal shops.
- A total of 900 personnel were involved in the anti-encroachment drive.
- 90% of illegal constructions have been cleared.
- The operation aims to restore access for devotees and reclaim forest land.
- High-ranking officials were present to ensure order during the operation.
Ajmer, Aug 2 (NationPress) In a significant and coordinated effort, the Forest Department and District Administration initiated a comprehensive anti-encroachment operation on Saturday in the Dargah area of Ajmer, successfully demolishing over 150 illegal shops.
The initiative focused on more than 250 illegal establishments built on the footpaths of Andarkot, Meetha Neem, and Bade Peer, resulting in a considerable police presence that transformed the Andarkot region into a heavily secured zone.
For the effective execution of this campaign, approximately 900 personnel were deployed, including forest officials, police officers, administrative staff, and laborers from Ajmer and nearby districts such as Tonk, Bhilwara, and Nagaur.
To date, around 150 encroachments have been cleared. Among the 268 illegal structures identified, close to 60 are currently under court stay orders.
The Forest Department has pinpointed encroachments on forest land extending from the Taragarh footpath to the Meetha Neem Dargah and further to the Bada Peer Dargah road.
A dedicated team of 250 forest staff is actively involved in the demolition process, while the police have implemented extensive security measures across sensitive regions.
Importantly, the district administration has enacted a temporary restriction on media access to the area due to security concerns.
However, to uphold transparency, they are releasing official photos and videos of the operation.
District Collector Lok Bandhu stated that 90 percent of the illegal constructions have been dismantled, with plans to clear the remaining structures shortly.
SP Vandita Rana stressed that the action is legally justified and conducted peacefully, with prior notifications issued to the shopkeepers.
"We are receiving full cooperation from the community. Most shopkeepers have already vacated,” she noted.
Preventative police forces have also been stationed outside the Adhai Din Ka Jhopara to deter movement towards the hill.
High-ranking officials, including Additional SP Himanshu Jangid and ADM City Gajendra Singh Rathore, were present throughout the operation to ensure law and order were maintained.
This extensive campaign represents a pivotal step towards restoring access for devotees and reclaiming forest land that has been unlawfully occupied for years in this historically significant region.
Point of View
The ongoing anti-encroachment drive in Ajmer is a crucial reflection of the government's commitment to uphold laws and restore public spaces. The operation not only emphasizes the need for legal compliance but also signals a proactive approach towards preserving cultural and historical sites, ensuring they remain accessible for future generations.
NationPress
05/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the demolition of illegal shops in Ajmer?
The demolition was part of a coordinated anti-encroachment drive by the Forest Department and District Administration to reclaim public space and restore access for devotees.
How many shops were demolished during the operation?
Over 150 illegal shops were demolished as part of the operation in Ajmer's Dargah area.
Was the operation carried out peacefully?
Yes, the operation was conducted peacefully with prior notices issued to shopkeepers, and the police ensured security throughout the process.
What measures were taken to ensure security during the operation?
A significant police presence was deployed, along with additional personnel from neighboring districts, to maintain law and order during the operation.
Is there ongoing media access to the site?
Media access to the site has been temporarily restricted for security reasons, although official photos and videos are being provided for transparency.
