Surat: Twenty days after the demolition drive in Nasir Nagar rendered nearly 100 families homeless, the inquiry into the operation has shown little progress, with questions still lingering over who authorised and executed the controversial action.
Even eight days after the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) constituted an inquiry committee, officials said the probe has yet to formally begin. The panel is awaiting a preliminary report from the Central Zone, under whose jurisdiction the demolition was carried out between May 29 and May 31.
According to officials, the report, to be submitted by Central Zone head Ashish Naik, is expected to detail the sequence of events leading to the demolition, identify officers involved in planning and execution, and examine whether prescribed procedures were followed. The report is also likely to address issues such as approvals, documentation and compliance with municipal norms.
Sources in the civic body said preparation of the report has been slow, with some officials who may come under the scanner either proceeding on leave or allegedly not cooperating with the exercise.
Committee members indicated that the inquiry would move forward only after the preliminary report is received. The panel is expected to verify the facts presented, seek additional records where necessary and question officials if discrepancies or procedural lapses emerge.
Despite the formation of the committee, no timeline has been announced for completion of the inquiry. Senior members declined to comment on a deadline, saying the process would conclude only after all relevant facts and documents are examined.
The demolition drive was carried out with heavy deployment of municipal staff, machinery and police personnel. Senior SMC officials and members of the city police's Special Operations Group (SOG) were present during the operation.
Meanwhile, many of those affected continue to struggle for basic necessities. Men, women and children displaced by the demolition are still living in the open, relying largely on donated food, while lacking access to adequate sanitation and shelter.
You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Surat | Silver Rate in Surat | Bank Holidays in Surat | Public Holidays in Surat | Surat AQI | Weather in Surat | Petrol Price in Surat | Diesel Price in Surat | CNG Price in Surat | LPG Price in Surat
Stay updated with the latest Surat news. Download the TOI App.
