Pune, Maharashtra: The Bombay High Court has given the green light for the celebration of Shourya Diwas in Koregaon-Bhima, issuing an order to clear the area around the Victory Pillar by removing sugarcane. The Maharashtra state government’s application seeking permission for the utilization of the location was heard by a single bench presided over by Justice Amit Borkar.
Key Points of the Court Order:
- Permission Granted for Shourya Diwas: From December 22, 2023, to January 5, 2024, the State Government is authorized to utilize the space near the Victory Pillar for Shourya Diwas.
- Public Access to Vijay Pillar Area: From December 31, 2023, to January 5, 2024, the general public is allowed to visit the Vijay Pillar area.
- Sugarcane Removal: As the area currently hosts sugarcane cultivation, the original petitioner, Malvadkar, is directed to remove the sugarcane and vacate the designated space.
- Government Intervention: In case Malvadkar fails to harvest the sugarcane, the state government is authorized to clear the space by removing the sugarcane.
- No Compensation Demands: Malvadkar is explicitly barred from demanding compensation from the government for any losses incurred during the sugarcane removal process by the administration.
- Sugarcane Ownership: Malvadkar is permitted to take the sugarcane harvested by the state government.
This decision comes after a five-year history of the government seeking permission to use the space for Shourya Diwas, with the court consistently granting approval. The court emphasized that permission is being granted this year as well.
As preparations for Shourya Diwas are set in motion, the court’s order aims to facilitate the smooth execution of the event, balancing the interests of the state government, the original petitioner, and the public visiting the Vijay Pillar area during the specified period.
