During a hearing on issues like stray cattle menace, poorly maintained roads, illegal encroachments, and unlawful parking across Gujarat, the High Court’s attention was drawn to a recent incident where a young man—booked for obstructing traffic rule enforcement—became the centre of a political controversy. Some political groups allegedly launched a social media campaign supporting him and targeting the police.
A bench of Justice AS Supehia and Justice RT Vachhaani took the matter seriously, warning that if any political figures interfere with the execution of court orders, their names should be submitted in affidavits for possible contempt action. The court stressed that no interference will be tolerated and warned it could start contempt proceedings on its own if required. “It is time for strict compliance with court rulings, enforcement of rules, and proper planning. The law must be upheld at all costs,” the bench said.
The judges also asked whether a 2006 ruling on stray cattle nuisance—reiterated in 2018—applied statewide. The petitioner confirmed it did, and the AMC informed that a statewide policy to address the issue had been introduced in September 2023. The court asked for a detailed status report on stray cattle across Gujarat by the next hearing.
Authorities also told the court about recent anti-encroachment drives in Ahmedabad along stretches like SG Highway, Bopal, Ghuma, Judges Bungalow Road, HL Road, CEPT, and IIM Road, and said similar action would continue in other areas.