Residents of Snehanjali Society in Ahmedabad staged a protest on Thursday after the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) carried out a demolition drive using JCB machines, triggering fears of displacement among homeowners. The aggrieved residents gathered outside the residence of builder Dilip Patel, demanding justice and accountability.
According to residents, AMC teams, accompanied by four officials and JCB equipment, reached the society around 9 am and began demolishing vacant houses. The sudden action led to chaos, forcing officials to temporarily halt the operation after residents raised strong objections. Subsequently, efforts were made to remove belongings from locked homes.
Dispute Dating Back to 2006
Snehanjali Society was developed by builder Dilip Patel. Residents allege that in 2006, they were shocked to learn that the entire society was classified as unauthorised. Since then, the builder had allegedly assured residents for nearly two decades that all legal formalities would be completed and the society regularised. However, these assurances never materialised.
Panic After AMC Action
Tensions escalated when AMC arrived with demolition equipment, leaving residents distressed at the prospect of losing homes built with their lifetime savings. With no support forthcoming from the builder during the civic action, residents decided to protest outside his home.
Builder Accused of Silence
Residents claim that Dilip Patel is no longer responding to phone calls or providing clear answers. Despite investing substantial amounts in their homes, families now face the threat of becoming homeless. Protesters warned that the sit-in will continue until the builder presents a concrete solution to resolve the crisis.
