Supreme Court’s Verdict on “Bulldozer Justice” Expected Today Amid Concerns Over Extra-Legal Demolitions

The Supreme Court is set to rule on nationwide guidelines for “bulldozer justice” today, focusing on preventing unauthorized demolitions used as punitive measures against accused individuals. The court stressed equal treatment under the law and cautioned against misuse of demolition powers.

The Supreme Court will deliver a critical ruling today on establishing nationwide guidelines to regulate “bulldozer” actions by authorities. This decision follows a series of petitions questioning the legality and ethics of using demolitions as punitive measures against accused individuals, which petitioners argue disproportionately affect marginalized communities and amount to extra-legal punishment.

In its October hearings, the Supreme Court extended an interim order pausing demolition drives, though it clarified that the order does not cover unauthorized structures, particularly those obstructing public spaces like roads and footpaths. The Court reiterated that all unauthorized constructions, irrespective of religious affiliations, should be removed if they threaten public safety. Justice Gavai remarked that secular principles demand equal treatment under the law, ruling out the use of demolition against specific communities.

During hearings, the Supreme Court acknowledged discrepancies in municipal laws governing demolitions and discussed the need to protect public rights without allowing misuse of demolition laws. Suggestions included a public awareness portal to educate citizens about lawful processes for demolitions.

Concerns from international bodies have also intensified scrutiny; in September, a UN Special Rapporteur labeled punitive demolitions a severe violation of human rights, cautioning that such actions could serve as tools for discrimination.

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As bulldozer actions continue to stir debate over human rights and legal boundaries, today’s decision by the Supreme Court is anticipated to set a precedent on how India balances law enforcement with the protection of fundamental rights.