Ranchi News: Jharkhand High Court Orders Removal of Illegal Meat and Fish Shops Near Harmu Panch Mandir, Ranchi

Ranchi, November 15, 2024: In a significant ruling, the Jharkhand High Court has directed the removal of illegal meat and fish shops operating near the Harmu Panch Mandir in Ranchi. The court ordered the Ranchi Municipal Corporation (RMC) to take action under Section 423 of the Municipal Act, initiating the process of removing these establishments. The next hearing for this case is scheduled for November 21.

Court’s Directive to Ranchi Municipal Corporation

The bench, consisting of Chief Justice M.S. Ramchandra Rao and Justice Deepak Roshan, expressed concern over the unlawful operations of meat and fish shops in the vicinity of Harmu Panch Mandir. The court questioned the RMC regarding the lack of action taken so far under the Municipal Act. The judges instructed the municipal authorities to take legal action and submit a progress report before the next hearing.

The court emphasized the need for the RMC to follow due process and carry out a timely and lawful resolution. The removal of the shops has raised concerns due to the proximity to the religious site, with calls for adherence to the law in managing such encroachments.

Lawyer’s Statement

During the proceedings, advocate Vinod Singh, representing petitioner Himanshu Shekhar, informed the court that several meat and fish shops were operating near the temple in violation of regulations. Singh added that despite being notified, the municipal authorities had not yet taken action to remove these shops.

On behalf of the RMC, advocate LCN Shahdev informed the court that notices had been posted within a 100-meter radius of the Harmu Panch Mandir, instructing shop owners to vacate their establishments. He further stated that if the vendors complied voluntarily, it would be welcomed, however, if not, the municipal corporation would take necessary action.

RMC Issues 72-Hour Ultimatum

Following the court’s instructions, the Ranchi Municipal Corporation issued a 72-hour ultimatum for the removal of illegal meat and fish shops near the Harmu Housing Colony area. The municipal administration, led by Assistant Administrator Chanddeep Kumar and Enforcement Officers, ordered the shop owners to vacate their premises by November 17. A clear warning was issued that the municipal corporation would intervene and take action if the shop owners failed to comply voluntarily.

Police Forces to Be Deployed for Encroachment Removal

In compliance with the high court’s order, Ranchi Municipal Corporation Administrator Sandeep Singh has written to the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) of Ranchi, instructing the deployment of necessary police forces and magistrates for the encroachment removal on November 17. The administration highlighted the importance of maintaining law and order during the operation. The deployment of a sufficient number of police officers, including female personnel, has been mandated to ensure that the process runs smoothly and without incident.

The removal of illegal meat and fish shops near the religious site of Harmu Panch Temple has sparked debates around the balance between urban development and the preservation of cultural and religious values. The court’s order underscores the importance of upholding local regulations, ensuring public health standards, and respecting community sentiments.

The Ranchi Municipal Corporation’s immediate actions and the high court’s involvement reflect a strong stance on maintaining discipline in urban spaces. With the case set for further hearing on November 21, the focus will shift to the enforcement of municipal regulations and the potential consequences for non-compliance by the vendors.