The Delhi High Court has prohibited the Centre from demolishing or dismantling any structures in or around the Ajmer Sharif Dargah until those affected are granted a proper hearing. A bench led by Delhi High Court judge Sachin Datta was hearing a petition from Syed Meharaj Miya, a hereditary khadim of the shrine, challenging a notice issued on 22 November 2025 by the Centre-appointed Nazim ordering removal of alleged encroachments. The court described the notice as “vague” and warned that demolition could not proceed without first issuing show-cause notices and allowing stakeholders to make representations.
Miya’s petition argues that the structures targeted for removal — including cupboards, shops and spaces occupied by traditional caretakers known as Gaddi Nashins — are not unlawful encroachments but integral parts of the shrine’s long heritage. Counsel for the petitioner, senior advocate Shadan Farasat, contended that the Nazim lacked the authority under the Dargah Khwaja Saheb Act to pass such an order, especially in the absence of a formal management committee for the Dargah.
The notice had required all cupboards, boxes and shops within the dargah complex to be cleared by 27 November. If not cleared, the Dargah Committee — currently not in existence — was to remove those structures “without any further notice.” The court underscored that such sweeping action cannot proceed when the legally mandated committee remains unconstituted.
Representing the government, counsel Amit Tiwari said the demolition drive was prompted by security concerns ahead of a major festival in January that could draw around 500,000 pilgrims, and that the structures lacked documentary proof of lawful possession. He argued the temporary installations posed obstructions to devotees and threatened site security.
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