The Supreme Court of India has directed the Gujarat government to limit the height of a compound wall being constructed near the Somnath Temple in Gir Somnath district to 5–6 feet, emphasizing that such walls are typically built to prevent encroachment and not to create imposing barriers.

This directive came in response to concerns raised by petitioners alleging that a 12-foot-high wall was being constructed, which they argued could obstruct public access and violate previous court orders. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Gujarat government, clarified that the wall’s purpose was to prevent unauthorized encroachments and not to restrict access. He also contested the claim of the wall’s height, stating it was merely an oral assertion without supporting evidence.

The Supreme Court has instructed the Gujarat government to issue appropriate instructions to the district collector to ensure the wall’s height complies with the court’s directive. Additionally, the court assured the petitioners that it would provide protection if any other construction activities were undertaken at the site.

This development is part of ongoing legal proceedings concerning the demolition of structures near the Somnath Temple, where the Gujarat government has been removing encroachments on government land. The Supreme Court has previously clarified that its orders do not apply to unauthorized structures on public land or those abutting water bodies, such as the Arabian Sea near Somnath.

Sources