‘If guilty, the house cannot be demolished’, Supreme Court makes stern remarks on bulldozer action

The Supreme Court heard the case of bulldozer action against criminals on Monday. During the hearing, the court asked how a person’s house can be demolished just because they are accused.

The Supreme Court on Monday expressed strong displeasure over the bulldozer action and questioned how a person’s house can be demolished just because they are accused or guilty in a criminal case. The court has also proposed guidelines to be followed across the country before demolishing houses.

A petition has been filed alleging that houses are being demolished without notice. The petitioner’s counsel, senior advocate Dushyant Dave, has sought directions to ensure that bulldozer action is not taken across the country.

Supreme Court to issue guidelines

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the court that according to municipal rules, unauthorized constructions can be demolished only after serving a notice. The court said it would issue guidelines, which would be followed by all states. The Supreme Court will hear the matter again on September 17.

‘Even if someone is guilty, their house cannot be demolished’

Addressing the bench of Justice BR Gavai and Justice KV Vishwanathan, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said that no property can be demolished just because the accused is involved in a criminal case. Mehta said that such demolition can only happen if the structure is illegal. However, the Solicitor General argued that the case was being presented in the wrong way in court.

Supreme Court’s stay on bulldozer action

Justice Gavai said, ‘We will issue guidelines based on this. How can a person’s house be demolished just because they are accused or guilty? If the construction is unauthorized, then it’s okay. There should be some simplification. We will establish a process. You are saying that demolition should only happen when there is a violation of municipal laws. Guidelines are needed, and it should be documented.’