Nagpur: Authorities have scheduled the demolition of Fahim Khan’s residence in Sanjay Bagh Colony on Monday at 10 AM, citing it as an illegal structure. Khan, currently in custody as the alleged mastermind behind the Nagpur riots, failed to comply with the 24-hour eviction notice issued by the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC).
This move marks the first instance of a riot-accused’s property being demolished in the city. The action comes just days after CM Devendra Fadnavis hinted at the use of bulldozers, echoing UP CM Yogi Adityanath’s model of justice. However, it unfolds against the backdrop of a Supreme Court ruling from November 2024 that prohibits demolitions without due legal process.
Legal Grounds for Demolition
According to NMC officials, the 86.48sqm double-storied house, registered under Khan’s wife Zahirunnisa, was built without approval under the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning Act, 1966. Despite multiple resident complaints about encroachment, action was only initiated following the riots.
Security and Curfew Updates
The demolition will take place under heavy police deployment. Meanwhile, the city’s week-long curfew was lifted on Sunday, except for certain sensitive areas. The situation remains tense after the death of riot victim Irfan Ansari in a hospital on Saturday.
With Gudi Padwa, Eid, Ram Navami, and Hanuman Jayanti approaching, officials are maintaining heightened security to prevent further unrest.
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