Chandigarh, May 4: The Punjab and Haryana High Court has ordered the demolition of Shri Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara and Radha Madhav Temple built illegally in GBP Crest Colony, Village Bhagomajra, Kharar, Mohali. The court has clarified that respecting religious sentiments, these structures should be removed under the legal process, as they have been constructed without valid permission.
The High Court has given 4 weeks time to the management committees of the temple and the gurudwara to respectfully remove the idols, scriptures and other holy objects from there while following religious rituals. After this, the structures themselves should be demolished within 2 weeks.
The way to come was closed
Gurmej Singh and other local residents filed a petition alleging that the management committees of the temple and the gurudwara, in collusion with the Resident Welfare Society, have encroached upon the public roads of the colony and have made illegal constructions. These roads, which were used to go to the nearby market, have been closed by erecting walls and installing gates.
The High Court has said in its order that if the management committees do not remove the constructions themselves within the stipulated time limit, then the SDM Kharar will demolish the illegal constructions with the help of the police. During this, the necessary religious rituals will also be performed to maintain religious dignity.
Recovery of expenses and warning of contempt
The court clarified that whatever expenses are incurred in the action, it will be reimbursed by the temple and gurudwara management committees. Also, if the orders are disobeyed, the SDM will have to file a status report and contempt of court proceedings will be initiated. The High Court also cited the Supreme Court’s decision, which said that the removal of any religious structure built without valid permission is completely legal and necessary.