In an unparalleled crackdown on illegal encroachments, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), in coordination with the Gujarat Police, launched a massive demolition drive on April 29, 2025, in the Chandola Lake area known to have become a hotbed for illegal Bangladeshi settlers entering India via Mamata Banerjee-ruled West Bengal.
The operation, described as one of the largest of its kind in the city, saw the deployment of 80 JCB machines and 60 dumpers. Estate officers from all seven municipal zones participated, following disconnection of illegal power supplies the day before. City Police Commissioner had visited the area ahead of the operation, and a pre-emptive night raid had resulted in over 1,000 detentions for identity verification. Out of the 890 detained, 143 were confirmed Bangladeshi nationals, while 200 were released after verification.
Ahmedabad: Today, Gujarat Police is carrying out one of the largest demolition drives against illegal migrants.
This looks so satisfying 💀 pic.twitter.com/JIppl5Y5Ab
— Mr Sinha (@MrSinha_) April 29, 2025
Chandola Lake at Ahmedabad has long faced rampant encroachment, with satellite imagery revealing how parts of the lake were buried under waste to establish unauthorized settlements. Reports suggest that many Bangladeshi illegals managed to secure fake Indian documents, allegedly benefiting from the lax policies of the Trinamool Congress government.
Among the illegal structures demolished was a high-profile farmhouse linked to a notorious local figure, Lallu Bihari alias Mehmood, who is now on the run. His 2,000-square-yard property, hidden behind thick vegetation, was falsely registered as a parking area. Investigations revealed it was actually a lavish farmhouse equipped with a fountain, air-conditioned rooms, a garden, a kitchen, and children’s play area.
Police officials revealed that Lallu Bihari had amassed significant assets, including over 50 cars, 250 auto-rickshaws, and even horses. He was allegedly involved in creating fake rent agreements for Bangladeshi illegals, running a prostitution and illegal money-lending racket, and issuing unauthorized parking cards.
Funds were reportedly laundered through entities like Kash Savarni Corner and A-One Brooms. His controversial A-One Nagar housing scheme in Juhapura is also under investigation.
During the demolition, a godown storing large quantities of country liquor was uncovered in one of the slum dwellings, further highlighting the illegal activities thriving in the area.
The Police Commissioner stated that further probes are underway and over 190 Bangladeshi illegals have been identified in other areas of the city. He confirmed that the Crime Branch is actively investigating Lallu Bihari’s network and accomplices.
