The Commissioner Hrishikesh Bhaskar Yashod, who ordered the halt of the bulldozer action in Meerut Central Market, has been transferred. It is believed that the administration took this action after the defiance of a Supreme Court order.
Meerut: A major administrative upheaval has occurred concerning the demolition case of the Central Market. Following the decision to halt demolitions in the market despite a Supreme Court order and declare it a temporary street market, the administration has removed Meerut Commissioner Hrishikesh Bhaskar Yashod from his post. This transfer, occurring within a tenure of just ten months, has become a topic of discussion. While officials are calling it a “routine procedure,” experts believe it is linked to contempt of court.
Controversy Ignites Over Action Against Illegal Constructions
Recently, the Supreme Court had ordered the demolition of illegal constructions in Meerut Central Market. Following the court's directives, the Housing Development Board used bulldozers to demolish several shops in the market. In protest against this action, trader organizations took to the streets and the market was shut down.
Given the escalating tension, Commissioner Hrishikesh Bhaskar Yashod intervened and ordered a halt to the demolition. Additionally, he permitted the affected shopkeepers to continue trading temporarily as a street market in the same location. This is where the dispute took a new turn.
Administration Strict on Disregard for Court Order
According to sources, the administration considered the Commissioner's action as contempt of a Supreme Court order. It is being said that this decision was not only beyond administrative boundaries but also affected the government's credibility. This was the reason the Commissioner's transfer order was issued late Tuesday evening.
Government sources state that the administration has given clear instructions to the new Commissioner to strictly enforce court orders and to show no leniency regarding any illegal construction.
Stir in Political Circles
The entire episode has also had a political impact. According to sources, BJP MP Arun Govil and Cantt MLA Amit Agarwal had met with traders and discussed finding a solution with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. It is believed that the decision to reopen the market was taken after these discussions.
However, with the issuance of the Commissioner's transfer order by the administration that same evening, speculations intensified in political circles that this step was taken to avoid contempt of court.
Trader Community Expresses Support
While the trader community has come out in support of the Commissioner, calling his decision “a step taken in public interest,” officials consider it a decision beyond rules. Several senior officials state that court orders cannot be altered under any circumstances.
This development in Meerut is not only creating a stir in the administrative world but has also raised new questions regarding the relationship between the administration and the judiciary.
