Bulldozer Justice

BULLDOZER JUSTICE

The Supreme Court has recently expressed concerns over the arbitrary demolition of properties belonging to individuals accused of crimes, emphasizing the need for adherence to due process.

The Court is set to establish pan-India guidelines to regulate demolitions following complaints about unjust practices in various states.

KEY ISSUES & LOCAL LAWS

Rajasthan

• Recent Incident: On August 17, the Udaipur Municipal Corporation demolished a house allegedly encroaching on forest land.
• Relevant Laws:
  • Rajasthan Municipalities Act, 2009:
  • Section 245: Addresses encroachments on public land, stipulating imprisonment and fines. Property can be confiscated, but the offender must be served notice and given an opportunity to respond.
  • Rajasthan Forest Act, 1953:
  • Section 91: Only a Tehsildar can order eviction and seizure of land if occupied illegally.

Madhya Pradesh

• Recent Incident: In June, the administration demolished part of a laborer’s house following allegations against his son, reportedly without serving prior notice.
• Relevant Law:
  • Madhya Pradesh Municipalities Act, 1961:
    • Section 187: Allows demolition of buildings constructed without permission, but requires notice to the owner and an opportunity to show cause.

Uttar Pradesh

• Recent Incident: The Supreme Court reviewed demolitions in Uttar Pradesh following violent protests in June 2022.
• Relevant Law:
  • Uttar Pradesh Urban Planning and Development Act, 1973:
    • Section 27: Governs demolitions for unauthorized development, requiring a notice period of 15 to 40 days. Decisions on appeals are final and cannot be questioned in court.

Delhi

• Recent Incident: Following communal violence in Jahangirpuri in April 2022, the North Delhi Municipal Corporation conducted a demolition drive targeting alleged illegal encroachments.
• Relevant Law:
  • Delhi Municipal Corporation Act, 1957:
    • Sections 321, 322: Permit removal of unauthorized structures or items without prior notice.
    • Section 343: Allows demolition of unauthorized buildings or work, with a 5-15 day notice period and provision for appeals before an Appellate Tribunal.

Haryana

• Recent Incident: After communal violence in August 2023, Haryana authorities demolished 443 structures, affecting both Muslims and Hindus.
• Relevant Law:
  • Haryana Municipal Corporation Act, 1994:
    • Section 261: Similar to Delhi’s provisions but with a shorter notice period of three days for demolitions. Affected parties can appeal before a district judge.

ANALYSIS & OBSERVATIONS

• Due Process Concerns: The Supreme Court’s focus highlights the critical need for adherence to legal procedures before executing demolitions. The Court’s future guidelines will aim to standardize and ensure fairness in such actions.
• Variability Across States: Local laws governing demolitions vary significantly, with differences in notice periods, grounds for demolition, and appeal processes. This variability can lead to inconsistencies and potential abuses of power.
• Human Rights Implications: Arbitrary demolitions, especially in response to criminal accusations or communal tensions, raise serious human rights concerns. Ensuring legal safeguards and adherence to procedural norms is crucial to protect individuals’ rights.

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