Residents put up a fight, Supreme Court relents

MiD DAY gives you a blow-by-blow account of the drama witnessed at the Campa Cola compound yesterday, when BMC officials arrived on the second day to carry out the demolition process

Campa Cola compound witnessed a clash between residents and officials yet again yesterday. After the residents refused to vacate their flats and blocked the gates on Tuesday, the demolition squad arrived yesterday to carry out the Supreme Court orders. Here’s how events unfolded.

09.30 am: The police force puts up outside the Campa Cola compound, waiting for the BMC officials to arrive. There are about 300 policemen at the spot on bandobast duty. Residents are worried seeing such a huge force. But the gates are still locked, with residents blocking the entrance, both from within and outside.

Pics/Sameer Markande

10.00 am: BMC arrives at the spot and a discussion ensues with the police force about the day’s plan. The discussion takes place for approximately 15 minutes.

10.15 am: Police try to convince the residents to move aside and allow the BMC to do their duty. But residents refuse to allow officials to enter, come what may. Some people have parked their cars in such a way that there is no way to enter the society

10.25 am: Despite repeated warnings, the residents still did not budge. Having no choice, the cops broke the lock of a small gate and entered the premises.

10.30 am: All lady police constables and officers got the residents to move away from the gate, causing a hue and cry as residents complain of being manhandled.

10.40 am: Residents still refuse to leave the gate. Officials order the bulldozer to break the gate. A huge cry breaks out as the entrance is breached by the heavy vehicle.

11.15 am: Politicians visit Campa Cola society to show their support. Even the ones who were missing on Tuesday show up to mark their presence.

11.40 am: After observing several media reports about the chaos and protests, the Supreme Court takes suo moto action and issues a stay order on the demolition. The court grants relief for the residents till May 31, next year. Celebrations break out on the premises.

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