Demolition Aftermath: Financial Aid and Protests in Meerut

A BJP leader has stepped in to support traders affected by a demolition drive in Meerut's Central Market, providing Rs 5 lakh in financial assistance. The Uttar Pradesh Housing and Development Board (UPHDB) carried out demolitions in compliance with a Supreme Court order on Saturday.

Vineet Agarwal Sharda, the state convener of the UP BJP's Vyapar Prakoshtha, visited the impacted traders and offered aid. The UPHDB has so far demolished 22 shops, with notices served to vacate approximately 90 more on 31 plots, provoking strong opposition from local traders, including Ajay Gupta, president of the Sanyukt Vyapar Sangh.

Protests continue as the Mahant of Dasna Temple, Yati Ma Chetanananda Saraswati, expressed solidarity with the traders. The Supreme Court, emphasizing the necessity for adherence to urban planning laws, upheld the demolition, citing the need for accountability and corrective action against unauthorized constructions.