The Supreme Court of India has made it clear in a judgment that there is no scope for demolishing someone's house or property just because he is accused of a crime. The court has ordered strict rules to be followed in case of demolition of any house or property. The Supreme Court gave this verdict on Wednesday (November 13). The British media reported the news.
The court gave this judgment in view of several petitions. Allegedly, some states are following 'bulldozer justice' or 'bulldozer justice' to punish those accused or convicted of crimes.
The Supreme Court has said that the government itself cannot destroy property as a judge. The horrific scene of a building being demolished by a bulldozer highlights the lack of law and order, where might is considered just.
The court directed that the victim should be given sufficient time before the demolition of the house or property to object to the order or to vacate the house.
The verdict comes at a time when BJP-ruled states are witnessing a trend of using bulldozer justice. Although in these cases the reason for illegal construction has been shown. But experts have questioned its rationale and say there is no legitimacy to such a move.
Opposition leaders and human rights activists said that many have been victims of such actions. However, its impact on the Muslim community is greatest. Such destructive actions are alleged to have taken place in the homes of the Muslim community, especially after religious violence or protests.
The BJP has denied the allegations and chief ministers of BJP-ruled states have cited the move as part of a tough stance on crime.
During the hearing on Wednesday, the Supreme Court strongly criticized the practice, saying that such arrogant and autocratic measures have no place under the democratic constitution.
The court also said that those who have taken the law into their own hands must be held accountable.
The court then issued a guideline. It has been clarified that at least 15 days notice must be given before any house demolition. The notice must clearly state the reason for the breach. If the accused does not respond to the notice within 15 days, the authorities can proceed with the demolition but the entire process must be videotaped.
The court warned that any violation of these guidelines would be considered contempt of court.
Throughout the hearing, the Supreme Court judges strongly criticized the practice of destroying property outside the court's judgment. Earlier this month, the court had also observed that demolition of houses based on complaints alone is contrary to the rule of law and is not acceptable at all.
Besides, the court said, the voice of the people cannot be silenced by the threat of destruction of property.
The Supreme Court's guidelines are seen as a positive step in curbing such destructive activities. But according to observers, it is important to enforce the order. In order to stop the recurrence of such destructive activities.
Human rights group Amnesty International praised the verdict, although it came late. However, it is a welcome step to protect people's rights.
