The Supreme Court on Tuesday paused the unauthorised bulldozer action against private companies across the country till October 1, dismissing government concerns that the demolition granted after the formal due process could be impacted.
The “heavens won’t fall if we ask you to hold your hands till the next hearing”, a bench of Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan stated. However, the court stated that its directives are not applicable to any unauthorised construction on public roads, footpaths, among others.
“Till next date there shall be no demolitions without seeking leave of this court. However, such order would not be applicable for unauthorised construction on public streets, footpaths, abutting railway lines or public spaces,” the court order reads.
The Supreme Court, already having condemned the “bulldozer justice” practised by various state governments twice this month, has now issued a stern warning to the government against further “grandstanding” and “glorification” of such actions. The court ordered, “No demolitions until further notice, without explicit permission from this court,” while cautioning that the Election Commission could also be called into the matter.
The court’s reference to the Election Commission holds particular significance, as upcoming elections are scheduled to be held in Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana, where the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is aiming to retain power. Additionally, polls are set to take place later this year in the BJP-ruled states of Maharashtra and Jharkhand.
