Executive Can't Become a Judge and Decide on Demolitions: SC Talks Tough on Bulldozer Action

New Delhi: Supreme Court on Wednesday prounced verdict and issued fresh guidelines regarding pan-India property demolition drive initiated by authorities, called 'bulldozer justice.'

A bench consisting of Justices B R Gavai and K V Viswanathan strongly criticised practice of "instant bulldozer justice," and stated that Executive cant assume role of a judge, declare someone guilty, and proceed to demolish ir property.

bench emphasised that demolishing homes of individuals solely based on accusations or even convictions would be "wholly unconstitutional."

Justices furr ordered that property demolition can take place without a prior show-cause tice, which must be issued at least 15 days before any action is taken. It also mandated that all demolition proceedings be videographed for transparency.

However, bench clarified that its directives would t apply in cases of unauthorised construction on public land or when a demolition order has been issued by a court of law.

Meanwhile, it also said that accused and convicts have certain rights and safeguards in light of Constitution and criminal law.

top court delivered its verdict on pleas seeking framing of guidelines on demolition of properties in country.

(Inputs from PTI)