The Ajmer Municipal Corporation, amidst a heavily armed police force, undertook a demolition drive around the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Adhai Din Ka Jhopda, and Delhi Gate. The sensitive operation targeted illegal constructions and roadside encroachments, sparking widespread resistance, sloganeering, and clashes between authorities and local residents.
The drive, conducted in the run-up to the 813th Urs of Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, sought to address long-standing civic issues in the heavily congested pilgrimage area. However, the crackdown also laid bare the simmering tensions between the local community and the administration.
Several bulldozers, accompanied by Municipal Corporation officials and a substantial police contingent, rolled into the vicinity of the Dargah. Their task: to dismantle illegal shops and encroachments that had sprawled across public roads and drains.
The demolition began with shops and makeshift structures near the Dargah’s bustling market. As the sound of bulldozers reverberated, agitated locals rushed to the scene, chanting slogans and attempting to block the machinery. Tensions escalated rapidly as the protesters formed human chains and clashed with police officers trying to maintain order.
The operation soon turned chaotic, with locals accusing the authorities of insensitivity and heavy-handedness. “We have been running these shops for decades, and now, without proper alternatives or compensation, they are demolishing our livelihoods,” said one shopkeeper, visibly distressed as his shop was razed.
Despite the resistance, the Municipal Corporation pressed ahead. Clashes erupted when police attempted to disperse the crowd, leading to a tense standoff that required reinforcements to stabilize the situation.
Municipal officials justified the operation, emphasising that the encroachments obstruct roads and drains, creating chaos during the Urs, which attracts millions of pilgrims. “The annual fair witnesses a massive influx of devotees. Encroachments have been a persistent issue, hampering movement and posing safety risks. This action was essential to ensure smooth and safe passage for pilgrims,” an official said.
Authorities added that shopkeepers and residents were given prior notice to vacate the encroachments voluntarily, but many failed to comply, necessitating the forceful removal.
With the operation unfolding in a highly sensitive area, the police deployed in large numbers to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control. Circle Officer Laxman Ram said, “We are here to ensure law and order. The operation is proceeding despite resistance, and our forces are equipped to handle any escalation.”
The Dargah area now resembles a heavily guarded zone, with barricades and police personnel stationed at critical points to deter further protests.
