The Supreme Court of India has directed a status quo on the Maharashtra Government's decision to demolish structures at Bale Shah Peer Dargah, located in Uttan. This order was issued by a bench comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai and Justice AG Masih on May 19, 2025.
The directive was given in response to a petition challenging the Bombay High Court’s refusal to intervene in the demolition order. The High Court had earlier dismissed the plea, stating that "no urgency is made out." However, the Supreme Court, while hearing the appeal, decided to maintain the current state of affairs for the next four weeks.
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"List after four weeks. Dasti permitted. Serve to the standing counsel of Maharashtra. Till the next date, there shall be status quo." — Supreme Court Order
Senior Advocate Vinay Navare, representing the Dargah Trust, highlighted that Maharashtra’s Revenue Minister, Chandrashekhar Bawankule, had instructed the demolition of alleged unauthorized structures at the Dargah complex before May 20. The directive was given during a response to a query by legislator Niranjan Davkhare in the state’s legislative council proceedings.
The primary allegation against the Dargah Trust involves claims of encroachment on government land, including areas designated as protected mangrove belts at Chowk Jetty in Uttan. The Trust has contested these claims and sought relief from the Supreme Court.
The legal representation for the petitioner also included Advocates Mayank Pandey and Prashant Pandey. The Supreme Court has now provided temporary relief by putting a hold on the demolition until further hearing, which is scheduled for four weeks later.
Case Details : BALEPEER SHAH CHARITABLE TRUST Versus THE STATE OF MAHARASHTRA AND ORS.| W.P.(C) No. 517/2025
