The Supreme Court of India will deliver a judgment on November 13, 2024, regarding petitions challenging the “bulldozer actions” by state governments, where properties of crime-accused individuals are demolished. The case, presided over by Justices B.R. Gavai and K.V. Viswanathan, has attracted attention due to concerns over property rights and due process. Critics argue these demolitions violate legal rights by bypassing proper judicial procedures, while supporters view them as a deterrent against crime. The verdict is expected to set an important precedent on balancing state powers with individual rights.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court of India is set to pronounce a critical judgment Tomorrow-November 13, 2024, regarding petitions challenging the controversial “bulldozer actions” by several state governments. These actions involve the demolition of properties belonging to individuals accused of various crimes.
This case has garnered considerable public attention and debate due to its implications for property rights, due process, and the rule of law.
The matter, titled W.P.(C) No. 295/2022, is included in the Supplementary List of cases scheduled for judgment. The case is presided over by a bench comprising Hon’ble Mr. Justice B.R. Gavai and Hon’ble Mr. Justice K.V. Viswanathan in Court No. 2.
The hearing will commence at 10:30 AM.
The court document accompanying the announcement includes specific instructions for the proceedings. It states:
- “IT WILL BE APPRECIATED IF THE LEARNED ADVOCATES ON RECORD DO NOT SEEK ADJOURNMENT IN THE MATTERS LISTED BEFORE ALL THE COURTS IN THE CAUSE LIST.”
- “NOTE: Chronology is based on the date of initial filing.”
- “NO REQUEST FOR PASS OVER OR ADJOURNMENT WILL BE ENTERTAINED IN ITEM NOS. 101 TO 105. IN THE EVENT THE PARTIES ARE NOT REPRESENTED WHEN THE MATTERS ARE CALLED OUT, THE COURT WILL HEAR AND DECIDE THE MATTERS IN THEIR ABSENCE.”
The judgment has been keenly anticipated, given that the practice of demolishing properties of alleged offenders, sometimes referred to as “bulldozer justice,” has sparked widespread debates on its legality and constitutionality. Critics argue that such actions bypass due process, infringing upon the legal rights of the accused, as properties are often razed without sufficient notice or a proper judicial process. Supporters of the practice, however, claim it serves as a strong deterrent against crime and criminal elements.
Among those representing the petitioners and respondents are prominent advocates, including Prashant Bhushan and Aslam Ahmed Jamal, who have previously voiced concerns over the arbitrary use of demolition as a punitive measure.
The upcoming judgment is expected to have far-reaching consequences for how state governments handle property demolitions in cases involving criminal accusations. The outcome could set a crucial legal precedent, balancing state interests in law enforcement with individuals’ rights to property and due process.
Click Here to Read Previous Reports on CJI
FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE FOR MORE LEGAL UPDATES
