60-year-old Shiv temple demolished in Hamirpur after Himachal Pradesh High Court orders, residents hit streets in protest

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A 60-year-old Shiv temple on the Sujanpur-Thural highway in the Kutheda area of Hamirpur district was demolished following orders from the Himachal Pradesh High Court.
The action, carried out by the Public Works Department (PWD) in the presence of district administration and the police, also included the partial demolition of a house’s balcony that was found encroaching on government land.

Residents outraged over demolition

The demolition triggered strong protests from local residents, who took to the streets, expressing outrage at the removal of what they described as a symbol of their faith and community.
The locals claimed the temple, which was initially a site for idols, had been constructed nearly 60 years ago through collective efforts and contributions. “This is not just a structure, it is a symbol of our devotion. If this temple was removed, all instances of encroachment in the area must be investigated and acted upon,” demanded the villagers.

Orders for prompt action from High Court

The action was initiated after a local resident filed a complaint about encroachments along the Sujanpur-Thural highway. Following investigations, the temple and the house balcony were found to encroach upon government land.
PWD officials, backed by the administration and the police, arrived at the site to enforce the high court’s directive, sparking immediate backlash.

Tehsildar attempts to calm protesters

Amid the uproar, the Tehsildar reached the spot to pacify the angry residents. Despite their objections, the demolition proceeded under police protection.
The villagers accused the authorities of selective enforcement, alleging that other illegal constructions in the area were being overlooked. “There are multiple cases of encroachment here, yet only this temple, a sacred site for us, has been targeted. Why this bias?” questioned a resident.
A senior official of the PWD stated that the demolition was carried out in compliance with the high court’s orders. “The action is based on a specific complaint. Similar measures will be taken wherever encroachments are reported,” he assured.
The demolition has left the residents divided, with many demanding a broader investigation into encroachments and questioning the prioritisation of removing a place of worship.

Sunil Chadda

Sunil Chadda

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