Supreme Court refuses plea on bulldozer demolitions

In a previous hearing on October 1, the Supreme Court had reserved its judgment on several petitions challenging these demolitions.

The Supreme Court declined to entertain a plea that sought compensation for individuals whose homes are demolished by government authorities. The petitioner argued that compensation should be provided in cases where bulldozers are used to raze properties and that the names of both the officials involved and the affected parties should be made public.

A bench led by Justice BR Gavai made it clear that the matter had already been closed, urging the petitioner to either withdraw the plea or face its rejection. The petitioner then chose to withdraw the case.

The plea was linked to the controversial practice of "bulldozer justice," where state authorities have demolished properties allegedly connected to individuals involved in criminal activities, often citing illegal construction. This practice has sparked widespread debate, with allegations of bias based on religion.

"The matter is already closed for judgment. Either you withdraw it, or we will reject it," Justice Gavai noted.

In a previous hearing on October 1, the Supreme Court had reserved its judgment on several petitions challenging these demolitions. State governments defended their actions, claiming that the demolished buildings were either illegally constructed or built on encroached land.