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The demolition of the 60-year-old Shiv and Shanidev temple in Kuthera area on the Sujanpur-Thural highway in Himachal Pradesh is in the headlines. This action was taken as part of the encroachment removal on the orders of the High Court. The Public Works Department took this step with the help of the administration and police, which angered the local people. Along with the temple, the balcony of a house was also demolished, which was termed as illegal construction. This temple was a symbol of faith for the local people, and this action forced the villagers to take to the streets.
Villagers' anger: Questions raised on the administration
Villagers say that this temple was associated with the religious sentiments of the area for years. Earlier there were only idols here, but the local people built the temple with mutual cooperation. People allege that bias is being shown in the action of removing encroachment. They say that if illegal construction has taken place in other areas as well, then action should be taken against them as well. During the protest, the Tehsildar reached the spot and tried to handle the situation, but the administration implemented the decision to demolish the temple.
The matter started with a complaint: Administration's side
According to the administration, this action was initiated after a person filed a complaint of encroachment on the highway. During investigation, it was found that the temple and the balcony of a house fall under the ambit of encroachment. Public Works Department officials say that this step was taken following the instructions of the High Court. Assistant Engineer of the department Abhishek Sharma said that if complaints of encroachment are received in other areas as well, action will be taken on them as well.
Villagers demand: Faith should be respected
Villagers say that before demolishing the temple, the administration should have looked for suitable alternatives. They believe that before demolishing religious places, their cultural and social importance should be kept in mind. People are also demanding that similar action should be taken at other places where encroachment has taken place. This incident has sparked a debate in the area about administrative functioning and respect for faith.
