Demolition of "illegal constructions" in Haryana's Nuh, conducted in the wake of communal clashes in the area was halted on Monday following an order by the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
Deputy Commissioner Dhirendra Khadgata asked officials concerned to stop the bulldozer action following the high court ruling, PTI reported.
The court took up the matter suo motu a week after communal clashes in Haryana claimed six lives, led to a huge loss of property and sparked panic in Nuh and Gurugram.
The demolition drive had come under criticism, with politicians alleging that it targeted Muslims. Also, many of those whose homes were razed had claimed that they were served no prior notice, reported ndtv.com.
The local administration had, however, said they were taking action against illegal constructions and encroachment and no individual was being targeted.
"Demolition drive against illegal construction is underway and it will continue. Action is not being taken to target anyone. Our motive is to establish peace," Khadgata said yesterday.
Over 350 shanties and 50 cement structures were demolished in the past four days of demolition.
Also, in Nuh, banks and ATMs have been reopened on Monday on a trial basis till 3pm, a week after clashes broke out in the district over aprocession organised by Hindu outfits, an official said. Financial institutions in Nuh, Tauru, Punhana, Ferozepur Jhirka, Pingawan and municipal corporation areas will open for a short window between 11 am to 2 pm on Monday, the official had said earlier.