Surat: An illegal fabricated structure meant for Jain temple (Derasar) erected in common space of a residential society was removed by the team of Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) under police protection.

Hitech Avenue Society is located in Vesu area of Surat’s Athwa zone. The society has population of both Jain and Hindu communities. The Jain community members had recently placed a 10 by 15 square ft size fabricated structure and later also installed a Murti of Jain Tirthankar (God) in it. Though the structure meant fr Derasar was placed in common space, the consent of Hindu community members of the society was not taken. As the Hindus staged protest and approached SMC and Police, the Jain community members roped in bouncers for protection of the structure, video of which had gone viral.

Acting on the application filed by the Hindu community members, the SMC had issued notice to the society. Later both community leaders met with the Municipal Commissioner. The Hindu community members threatened dharna protest on the main road starting from Friday if SMC fails to act.

SMC had then taken action and seized the structure. As the crowds of both sides gathered, the Police had to do lathicharge and detain those involved in rioting. Senior police officer DCP Sagar Barmar was also present. DeshGujarat