SC’s decision on bulldozer action, why punish the entire family for one accused?

Made a big comment during the hearing on bulldozer proceedings in the Supreme Court on Wednesday (13 November 2024). The court said that government power should not be misused. Justice Gavai, quoting a poem by poet Pradeep, said that home is a dream, which can never be broken. The judge further said that the punishment for the crime cannot be demolition of the house. Being accused or convicted of a crime is not grounds for demolishing a house.

During the hearing, the judge said, “We have heard all the arguments. We have considered democratic principles. We have considered the principles of justice. “We have considered the principles laid down in decisions like Indira Gandhi vs Rajnarayan, Justice Puttaswamy.” This is the responsibility of the government. The rule of law must be ensured, but sometimes protection of civil rights is necessary in a constitutional democracy.”

If there is only one accused then why punish the entire family?

The court said in its decision that arbitrary attitude towards bulldozer action will not be tolerated. Officials cannot act arbitrarily. If there is only one accused in a case then why punish the entire family by destroying the house? An entire family cannot have their home taken away. The action of the bulldozers truly shows the lack of fear of law.

Earlier, while reading the verdict, the court said that the house is like a dream.

Earlier, while reading the verdict, the court said that the house is like a dream. A man’s home is his last security. Prejudice cannot be maintained against the accused. There should not be misuse of government power. The punishment for crime is not to demolish the house. The house of any accused cannot be demolished.

Compensation should be given for wrongful demolition of the building.

The court said that there should be rule of law. Bulldozer action cannot be partisan. Compensation should be given for wrongful demolition of the building. Responsible officers will not be spared. We have passed the order after hearing all the parties. We have considered the suggestions of experts.