Places of worship in public under scanner

Addressing a meeting here to discuss regarding removal of such places of worships in the district, he asked tahsildars concerned to take pictures of such places of worships, take detailed report from Public Works Department about its illegality and then prepare sketches accordingly. Assistant commissioners should accompany tahsildars in this job.

They should consult religious leaders and citizens and explain them about the orders of the apex court. Necessary action should be initiated within 15 days if anybody comes forward to voluntarily remove them with a view to help general public.

Gupta wanted officials to act swiftly to remove places of worships that have come up in parks and Civic Amenity sites. Encroachment of land belonging to various departments should be brought to the notice of district administration.

Responsibility

The officials would be held responsible in case they fail to discharge their duties and they have to face consequences. The Supreme Court in its order on December 7, 2009, has stated officials concerned would be held responsible, if any places of worship come up illegally.

Demolition of such illegal structures would be taken by taking general public into confidence. All care should be taken that anti-social elements do not take undue advantage of the situation.

Illegal places

In regard to illegal places of worship in corporation limits, the DC said a meeting of MCC officials would be held in three days, to know the steps taken in this regard.

Superintendent of Police Ramasubba, Additional Deputy Commissioner Dr C J Betsurmutt and senior officials of other departments participated in the meeting.