'Laws Under Constitution Should be Followed': UP Minister on SC's Order on Bulldozer Action

New Delhi: The Supreme Court's recent order to establish guidelines on the use of bulldozers by governments to demolish immovable properties has sparked reactions from political leaders. On Wednesday, Uttar Pradesh Minister of Technical Education Ashish Patel refrained from commenting directly on the court's decision, stating that it would not be appropriate for him to do so.

However, Patel emphasised the importance of adhering to the Indian Constitution and the laws derived from it. "It is not right for me to comment on the court's order, but I will say that the constitution of Baba Saheb Bhimrao Ambedkar and the laws made under that constitution should be followed by everyone, and our CM follows strict law and order against criminals," Patel stated.

The Supreme Court, on Monday, ruled that the properties of accused individuals cannot be demolished even if they are convicted. A bench comprising Justices B.R. Gavai and K.V. Viswanathan questioned this practice and invited suggestions from concerned parties to help formulate pan-India guidelines on the matter.

During the hearing, the bench raised concerns about the legality of demolishing properties based on accusations and clarified that properties should not be demolished even if the owner is convicted. However, the court also specified that it would not protect illegal structures that obstruct public roads and emphasized that any demolition must be carried out according to the law.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that no property should be bulldozed solely because its owner is involved in a criminal case or convicted, and such actions should only be undertaken in accordance with municipal laws.

The Supreme Court is currently hearing several petitions related to the use of bulldozers by authorities to demolish immovable properties. One of the petitions highlighted the growing trend of illegal demolitions as a form of extra-legal punishment, particularly targeting minorities and marginalized communities. The petitioner urged the court to ensure that demolitions are conducted strictly according to the law and to hold accountable any officials involved in illegal demolition activities.

The court has scheduled the next hearing on this matter for September 17.