Supreme Court halts 'bulldozer justice' until October 1
What's the story
The Supreme Court on Tuesday halted all unauthorized bulldozer actions against private property across India until October 1. The bench, comprising Justice BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan, dismissed concerns raised by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta that this would affect legally sanctioned demolitions. "The heavens won't fall if we ask you to hold your hands till the next hearing," the bench said.
Warning issued
Supreme Court warns against 'glorification' of bulldozer justice
The Supreme Court has previously criticized "bulldozer justice" twice this month. It also warned against the "grandstanding" and "glorification" of such practices. The court stated, "No demolition, till next date, without permission of this court." It also hinted that the Election Commission of India might be put on notice due to upcoming elections in Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, Maharashtra, and Jharkhand.
Public spaces
Court clarifies stance on public space encroachments
The court's mention of the election commission is noteworthy as elections are upcoming in Jammu and Kashmir, marking the first Assembly vote in ten years, and in Haryana, where the Bharatiya Janata Party aims to retain power. Additionally, polls are set to take place this year in BJP-governed Maharashtra and Jharkhand. However, the Supreme Court clarified that its order does not apply to removing encroachments in public spaces such as roads, railway tracks, and water bodies.
Legal framework
Supreme Court to streamline demolition guidelines
The court also announced plans to streamline guidelines for property demolitions under municipal laws. The aim is to prevent misuse of the law and any constitutional infirmity. During the hearing, some petitioners claimed that demolitions had occurred despite the court's previous instruction that "alleged involvement in a crime is no ground for demolition of property."
Defense presented
Solicitor General defends against 'bulldozer justice' narrative
Solicitor General Mehta defended the government's position during the hearing, arguing that a narrative was being constructed against "bulldozer justice." He stated, "Narrative is being built. What is this narrative building? Give us instances we will give answers on how it was not illegal demolitions. We have to demolish all outside narratives." The Supreme Court will reconvene on October 1 to hear pleas against property demolitions involving those accused of crimes.