Supreme Court vs. Bulldozer Blitz: Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind's Bold Petition Sparks Nationwide Guidelines for Fairness!

Delhi: The Supreme Court is currently hearing a petition filed by the Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind challenging the ongoing bulldozer actions taking place across the country. The bench, comprising Justices B.R. Gawai and K.V. Vishwanathan, previously issued a stay on the bulldozer operations, stating that only encroachments on public land could be removed.

Government's Response

During the proceedings, Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta represented the states of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan. The Supreme Court questioned whether properties could be demolished upon conviction for a crime. Mehta clarified that no property could be destroyed even in cases involving murder, rape, or terrorism.

Judicial Guidelines

The Supreme Court indicated that it would issue guidelines applicable to all citizens. Justice Gawai made it clear that illegal constructions could be undertaken by individuals of any religion, emphasizing that the law must be equal for everyone.

Justice Vishwanathan highlighted that if violations occurred in two structures but only one faced action, it could result in either a compromise or an unyielding offense. He stressed the need for judicial oversight in these matters.

Focus on Minorities

In this context, SG Tushar Mehta remarked that instances of bulldozer actions against minorities are minimal compared to those associated with builders. Justice Vishwanathan noted that there could be no quasi-judicial oversight prior to the decisions made by municipal officials.

Government Directives on Bulldozer Actions

The Supreme Court directed that all rules and guidelines should be uniformly implemented across the country. It also instructed that proper notice should be served to ensure transparency and fairness in the process.

Source:Delhi: बुलडोजर एक्शन पर सुप्रीम कोर्ट का बड़ा फैसला, कहा- “सभी धर्मों के लिए समान होंगे बुलडोजर कार्रवाई के नियम”