Rahul Haldar

In the tapestry of a nation's legal framework, the Supreme Court stands as a sentinel, guarding the rights and liberties of its citizens. In recent times, the Indian Supreme Court has taken a firm stance against the increasingly contentious practice of using bulldozers for punitive demolitions, particularly in cases where individuals are accused or convicted of crimes. This practice, while employed under the guise of maintaining law and order, has raised significant concerns about its potential for abuse and its impact on the fundamental principles of justice. The Jahangirpuri Incident: A Flashpoint of Controversy The Jahangirpuri incident in 2022 served as a stark illustration of the complexities surrounding this issue. Following communal violence that erupted after a religious procession, the local administration issued notices to residents, claiming their houses were illegally constructed and subject to demolition. The Supreme Court's intervention, placing a stay on the demo...

A Deep Dive into the Legality, Ethics, and Social Impact of Punitive Demolitions In a landmark move, the Supreme Court of India has cast a spotlight on a contentious issue that has been brewing in recent times: the use of bulldozers by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government to demolish the homes of individuals accused of crimes, predominantly targeting minority communities. This practice, often termed "bulldozer justice," has raised concerns about the erosion of due process, the targeting of specific groups, and the potential for abuse of power. Unraveling the Past: The Genesis of 'Bulldozer Justice' The roots of 'bulldozer justice' can be traced back to a complex interplay of political, social, and legal factors. While the use of demolitions as a punitive measure is not new, it has gained unprecedented momentum under the BJP regime. The justification for such actions often revolves around cracking down on illegal constructions or encroachments. Ho...