Illegal commercial complex razed in Meerut on SC orders

A 35-year-old commercial complex, built illegally on a plot originally allotted for residential purposes, has been demolished here on the directive of the Supreme Court.

The complex, which housed 22 shops, is located in Kazi Pur. Before the demolition began on Saturday morning, shop owners were seen pleading for relief as many expressed despair over losing their livelihoods.

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The development drew a large crowd, prompting police to set up barricades around the area. A heavy police force was deployed, including personnel from multiple police stations and the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC). The Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) also used drones to monitor the situation closely.

The demolition follows a Supreme Court directive issued on December 17, 2024, ordering the illegal complex to be vacated and razed under the supervision of the Uttar Pradesh Housing and Development Board.

According to records, the 288-square-meter plot was originally allotted to Veer Singh of Kazi Pur for residential use. However, in 1990, a man named Vinod Arora allegedly used a power of attorney to illegally construct the commercial complex. The matter eventually reached the Supreme Court, which ruled in favor of the demolition after years of legal proceedings.

Authorities confirmed that the action is being taken strictly in compliance with the court’s order, while affected traders continue to demand rehabilitation or compensation.