In a deeply emotional turn of events, the Supreme Court has stepped in to protect the Hazrat Saatpeer Sayed Baba Dargah in Nashik from an impending demolition. This intervention comes after the dargah’s management appealed to the highest court, claiming that despite repeated attempts, their petition had not been heard in the Bombay High Court.

Supreme Court Intervention

The case took a dramatic twist on April 16, when a bench of the Supreme Court, consisting of Justice P.S. Narasimha and Justice Joymala Bagchi, issued an interim stay on the demolition. The court’s decision followed the urgent plea made by senior advocate Navin Pahwa, who had been representing the dargah management.

Pahwa informed the court that a writ petition had been filed before the Bombay High Court on April 7, 2025, challenging the demolition order, but despite the passing days, the matter had not been listed for hearing.

The Emotional Toll of Legal Inaction

In a stern message, the bench remarked that it was “unable to understand as to what transpired from April 9 till today.” The Supreme Court’s extraordinary measure was aimed at addressing what it saw as a grave concern regarding the lack of action from the High Court.

But the situation became even more urgent when it was revealed that the structure had already been demolished by the municipal authorities. Sources indicated that the demolition took place in the early hours of April 15 and 16, just hours before the Supreme Court hearing.

What’s Next for the Dargah?

The bench’s order to stay the demolition and its call for a report from the Bombay High Court on why the petition had not been listed in a timely manner was seen as a crucial step toward ensuring that justice is served. The Supreme Court has also instructed the Nashik Municipal Corporation to respond to the court’s queries, allowing all parties involved to present their sides before any further action is taken.

The Supreme Court has scheduled the matter for further hearing on April 21, a date that many are eagerly awaiting, as it holds the potential to determine the future of the Hazrat Saatpeer Sayed Baba Dargah.

A Reminder of the Need to Protect Religious Heritage

This case serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between urban development and the protection of religious and cultural heritage. It brings to light the emotional toll such legal battles take on communities who feel that their faith and history are under threat. For now, the dargah’s fate hangs in the balance, and many hope that the highest court will provide a lasting solution that safeguards this sacred space.

Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and aims to provide an unbiased overview of the ongoing legal proceedings. The facts presented are subject to change based on court rulings and further developments.

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