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India's Supreme Court Bans 'Bulldozer Justice'
India's Supreme Court rules against the unconstitutional practice of demolishing properties of suspected criminals, known as "bulldozer justice."
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United States
PoliticsJusticeHuman Rights ViolationsHuman RightsGender IssuesIndiaSupreme CourtIndo Pacific
India's Supreme CourtBharatiya Janata Party (Bjp)Amnesty International
Narendra ModiNupur SharmaJaved MohammadB.r. GavaiK.v. Viswanathan
- What prompted the Supreme Court's ruling?
- The court's ruling came in response to several petitions concerning demolitions targeting suspected criminals, primarily Muslims, in BJP-governed states.
- What did the court say about the executive's role in such demolitions?
- The court stated that the executive cannot act as a judge and punish individuals by demolishing their properties without due process; this action transcends executive limits.
- What accusations have been made against BJP state administrations regarding the demolitions?
- Critics accused BJP state administrations of using "bulldozer justice" to target Muslims, a claim the BJP denies; the court noted a "pick and choose" approach targeting Muslims.
- What new guidelines did the court issue regarding the demolition of illegally constructed homes?
- New guidelines mandate at least 15 days' notice before demolition, allowing occupants to remove the construction or challenge the order in court; officials found guilty face action.
- What was the ruling of India's Supreme Court regarding the demolition of properties belonging to suspected criminals?
- India's Supreme Court declared that demolishing properties of suspected criminals before trial is unconstitutional, ceasing the practice of "bulldozer justice."