Today, On 24th March, The Bombay High Court issued a stay on the demolition of houses belonging to two individuals accused in the Nagpur violence case. Criticizing the administration’s approach, the court termed it “high-handed.” Meanwhile, amid tight police security, civic authorities proceeded with the demolition of accused Fahim Khan’s house, citing unauthorized construction.
Mumbai: The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court ordered a stay on the demolition of the houses belonging to two individuals accused in the Nagpur violence, including Fahim Khan.
The court criticized the administration for its “high-handedness.”
Khan’s two-story house was demolished before the high court issued its order in the afternoon.
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However, following the court’s directive, authorities stayed the demolition of the illegal sections of the other accused, Yusuf Sheikh’s house.
Both individuals had approached the high court on Monday seeking an urgent hearing regarding the demolitions.
A division bench comprising Justices Nitin Sambre and Vrushali Joshi heard their pleas and questioned why the homeowners were not given an opportunity to be heard before the alleged illegal portions were demolished.
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The bench remarked that the action was taken in a high-handed manner without prior notice to the property owners.
The bench indicated that if it determined the demolition was carried out illegally, the authorities would be liable for damages incurred, as claimed by Advocate Ashwin Ingole.
Under heavy police security, civic authorities demolished Khan’s house on Monday morning for unauthorized construction. They also began removing an illegally constructed section of Yusuf Sheikh’s house in the Mahal area, which was the epicenter of the violence on March 17.
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Ingole noted that the court has requested a response from the government and civic authorities, scheduling the next hearing for April 15.
Nagpur witnessed violent clashes recently, leading to heightened tensions and large-scale police deployment. The violence reportedly erupted following communal tensions in the area, resulting in damage to property and injuries. Authorities launched a crackdown, arresting several individuals allegedly involved in the unrest.
However, the state’s response, particularly the demolition of properties, has raised concerns about legal procedures and administrative overreach.