HC Stops Bulldozer Action At Ajmer Dargah
The Delhi High Court has stopped authorities from carrying out any demolition at the Ajmer Sharif Dargah without following due legal process. The court said officials cannot enter with bulldozers and remove structures unless affected people are issued notices and given a proper hearing.
Petition challenges notice
The order came after a petition filed by a Dargah priest, who argued that a recent notice asking for removal of “encroachments” was vague and issued without consultation. The petition stated that the notice did not follow the procedure laid down under the Dargah Khwaja Saheb Act, which requires decisions to be made by a statutory management committee. That committee has not yet been formed.
Hearing is mandatory
The court said demolition of any structure has serious consequences and must comply with natural justice. It directed that authorities must first identify the structures, inform affected parties, listen to their objections and then take a reasoned decision. The judge remarked that officials “cannot just go in with a bulldozer and raze everything.”
Formation of committee urged
The High Court also asked the central government to expedite the creation of the Dargah management committee, as it is the only legally authorised body for decisions related to the shrine. Until the committee is formed, no demolition or removal action can be taken.
Heritage and rights
The ruling is seen as a reminder that administrative action cannot bypass legal procedure, especially at heritage and religious sites. The order provides temporary relief to those working at the Dargah and sets a precedent for how similar disputes should be handled in the future.
