His statement came in response to Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s criticism of the demolition of a house in Chhatarpur district after its owner, Shahzad Ali, was implicated in a violent protest triggered by alleged anti-Islamic remarks made by Ramgiri Maharaj.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav defended the state’s use of ‘bulldozer justice’ on Saturday (24th Aug), emphasizing that no one is above the law and that the government’s actions are in accordance with Constitutional principles.
His statement came in response to Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra’s criticism of the demolition of a house in Chhatarpur district after its owner, Shahzad Ali, was implicated in a violent protest triggered by alleged anti-Islamic remarks made by Ramgiri Maharaj.
Yadav stated that the rule of law prevails and the government is acting against lawbreakers under Constitutional guidelines.
He further justified the administration’s actions if construction was carried out without proper authorization.
“If construction occurs without necessary approval and becomes linked with terror-related activities, the administration is free to take appropriate action,”
he added.
Yadav stated, “No one is above the law. The rule of law prevails, and the government is acting in accordance with Constitutional provisions against those who violate it.” He also suggested that if proper approvals for construction weren’t obtained, the administration is justified in taking action.
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“Construction must follow due approvals. If those approvals are not secured, and if the individual becomes associated with terror, the administration is within its rights to act accordingly,”
Yadav said.
Earlier, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra criticized ‘bulldozer justice’ as unacceptable and called for it to end.
“Only the court has the authority to determine someone’s guilt and punishment if accused of a crime.Punishing the accused’s family, removing their roof, disregarding the law, and demolishing their home immediately after an accusation is made—that is not justice,”
said Gandhi Vadra.
She added,
“One who fails to fulfill ‘rajdharma’ cannot work for the welfare of society or the country. Bulldozer justice is unacceptable and must stop.”
Earlier, Gandhi Vadra condemned ‘bulldozer justice,’ stating it was unjust and must be halted. She argued that only courts have the authority to determine guilt and punishment, criticizing the practice of demolishing homes before the legal process is complete.
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Demolition Controversy
The controversy began when Ramgiri Maharaj allegedly made anti-Islamic remarks during a religious event in Maharashtra’s Nashik district. This led to a violent protest by the Muslim community on Wednesday, during which a mob threw stones and damaged vehicles, injuring several policemen.
On Thursday, the house of Shahzad Ali was demolished under the jurisdiction of Kotwali police station. Authorities reported that a case was filed against 150 individuals for the violence, with 46 specifically named.
The unrest, triggered by Maharaj’s remarks, escalated in Shah Panchale village in Sinnar taluka, leading to injuries to two policemen and property damage.
The Madhya Pradesh government defends its actions as legally justified, arguing that administrative measures are necessary for those who bypass legal construction procedures and become linked with violence. The situation remains tense, with both sides firmly standing by their views on law enforcement and justice.
