Gujarat Congress President Shaktisinh Gohil has launched a fervent critique of the BJP government and the Bhavnagar Municipal Corporation for their recent decision to issue eviction notices to over 5,000 hutmen residing along the scenic banks of the Gadechi River. Calling the action inhuman and unjust, Gohil raised his voice in defense of the vulnerable families who believe they owned these makeshift homes for generations.
He pointed out the historical significance of these dwellings, observing that many were constructed on lands granted by Maharaja Krishnakumar Singhji, the decorated King of Bhavnagar, during the pre-independence era. For ages, these houses have been sanctuaries for hardworking families, promoting a sense of community and continuity. “These homes, belonging to the second and third generations of labourers, are being demolished without a shred of compassion,” lamented Gohil, adding that such drastic measures have unsettled the community.
“It is deeply unjust to uproot families without providing alternative arrangements, especially when they have resided here since before independence,” he was quoted as saying. Gohil urged the government to have a compassionate stance, insisting that evictions carried out without viable solutions are against the tenets of natural justice.
Seconding Gohil sentiments, Vadgam MLA and Gujarat Congress vice-president Jignesh Mevani disapproved the BJP’s actions, accusing the party of pandering to corporate interests above the needs of the impoverished. He claimed that the ongoing demolition initiative appears to favour the Nirma Group, suggesting that corporate influence heavily swayed the administration’s callous decision to displace vulnerable families. “While Congress is fighting to save your homes, the BJP government is squandering Rs 70 crore to render you homeless,” Mevani said.
Mevani alleged that illegal encroachments by certain builders and influential leaders were conveniently overlooked while the government targeted the poorest communities. “This blatant injustice is wholly unacceptable. The government must first provide housing solutions before even considering such demolitions,” he further asserted.
In a poignant reference to past promises made by the ruling party, Mevani reminded the government of its electoral vow to provide every citizen a roof over their heads within a span of five to 10 years. “Instead of fulfilling that pledge, the BJP is systematically demolishing the homes of the underprivileged,” he claimed, accusing the current administration of failing to uphold the housing schemes championed by Congress in the past.
The Congress party also accused the BJP-led administration of turning a blind eye to Supreme Court directives that require the provision of alternative arrangements prior to any eviction actions. Determined to continue their advocacy, the party pledged to fight relentlessly to protect the rights and dignity of Bhavnagar’s residents, promising that their cause would not go unheard.
The Congress leaders reiterated their unwavering commitment to defending the rights of Bhavnagar’s residents. Gohil was quoted as saying, “The curse of the poor never goes in vain,” indicating their resolve to stand by the affected families. Subsequently, a memorandum was presented to the municipal commissioner, demanding immediate action to cease the demolitions and ensure justice for those who have been displaced.
In a show of solidarity, a rally organised by the Slum Settlement Welfare Committee and Congress saw hundreds of residents come together, many expressing their deep fears of losing their homes. Starting at Jasonath Chowk and culminating at the district collector’s office, the rally served as a powerful platform for leaders to advocate for the rights of those affected. They insisted that the families, some of whom have resided along the canal banks for over four decades, deserve appropriate alternative housing or financial support to help them rebuild their lives.
Also Read: Back Injury Scare For Bumrah As Desperate India Await His Medical Update
