SC Asks Govt To Stop Demolitions

The Supreme Court of India ordered to halt the unauthorised demolition of private properties and constructions across the country till October 1, when it will hear the ‘bulldozer justice’ case once again.

A few state governments have been demolishing the residential and commercial properties of people who are accused in criminal cases, under the tag ‘Bulldozer Justice’. The Supreme Court said that the heavens won’t fall if the demolitions stop until its next hearing.

However, this order will not be applicable for establishments built on public roads, railway lines and water bodies. Structures built on those lands can be demolished.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who represented the government, opined that the delay in the order would affect the legally sanctioned demolitions.

Responding to the same, the bench of Justice BR Gavai and Justice KV Viswanathan said, “The heavens won’t fall if we ask you to hold your hands till (the) next hearing.”

Twice this month, the Supreme Court expressed strong disapproval of the bulldozer demolitions in various states. It directed the government not to glorify these actions and ordered that no structure be demolished without its permission. The next hearing will be held on October 1.

In Telangana, HYDRAA has been actively demolishing structures recently. However, this decision will not apply to HYDRAA, as it is focused on removing structures built by encroaching on lakes and water bodies.