The Patna High Court has ordered the State to pay interim compensation to a family whose house and boundary walls were demolished during an encroachment proceeding without any authorising order, holding that the demolition violated the right to shelter under Article 21 and the protection of property under Article 300-A. A house is not merely four walls but has a ‘divine spirit’, the Court observed, and its demolition is akin to ‘Brahma Hatya’.
Today, On 4th December, The Supreme Court granted one-week interim protection to petitioners whose properties in Uttar Pradesh were facing demolition, directing authorities to maintain the present status. The order provides temporary relief while the Court examines the concerns raised over the demolition proceedings.
The Orissa High Court criticized the State for unlawfully demolishing a community centre, labeling it “bulldozer justice.” The Court ordered Rs 10 lakh in compensation for violating citizens’ rights, emphasizing the erosion of legal legitimacy and the necessity of adhering to judicial processes. It affirmed the importance of due process in state actions.
CJI B.R. Gavai emphasized the significance of the Indian Constitution in safeguarding citizens’ rights, particularly against illegal demolitions termed “bulldozer justice.” The Supreme Court mandated due process before any demolition, highlighting the fundamental right to shelter under Article 21. It protects citizens from arbitrary actions by authorities while ensuring justice and dignity.
In 2024, India’s Supreme Court dealt with numerous landmark rulings, focusing on personal liberty, places of worship disputes, and electoral reforms. Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna emphasized efficiency, reforming case backlogs. Notable cases included prohibitions on religious site surveys, striking down electoral bonds, and addressing environmental pollution. The court’s decisions significantly influenced legal frameworks and societal issues.
Lawyer-activist Prashant Bhushan strongly opposed the idea of ‘one nation, one election’, calling it as “ridiculous and unconstitutional”, and said holding simultaneous polls was impractical in a parliamentary democracy. He also hailed the recent apex court judgements that gave a stay on lawsuits about reclaiming religious places, especially mosques, and ‘bulldozer justice’.
