 |
|
The Supreme Court of India has taken a firm stance against the Assam government, issuing a contempt notice for the demolition of 48 homes in the Kamrup district. The court's action stems from a petition filed by residents of Mouza-Sonapur, who allege that the state government violated a previous court order by proceeding with demolitions without obtaining the necessary permission. The residents claimed their homes were demolished under the pretext of encroaching on tribal land.
The Supreme Court's decision to issue a contempt notice underscores the importance of upholding judicial orders and following due process. The court emphasized that any demolition action must be preceded by its approval, particularly in light of its recent efforts to curb the practice of 'bulldozer justice'. This practice involves the demolition of properties, often without due process, of individuals accused of crimes, and sometimes even their families.
The court's intervention highlights the complexities of land ownership and the potential for abuse of power when dealing with land disputes. The residents of Mouza-Sonapur had been engaged in a legal battle for decades, claiming ownership of the land through power of attorney agreements passed down from their forefathers. The Assam government, however, maintained that the land belonged to tribal communities and that the residents were encroachers. The court's decision to issue a contempt notice and halt further demolition action suggests that the state government's actions were premature and potentially violated the rights of the residents.
The Supreme Court's action also reflects a growing concern about the misuse of law enforcement powers and the need to ensure that legal processes are followed in cases involving land disputes. The court's decision to maintain status quo on further demolition action is a temporary measure, pending further investigation and legal proceedings. The issue of land ownership and the alleged encroachment on tribal land will likely be further scrutinized by the court. This case highlights the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of all citizens, regardless of their land ownership status.
Source: Supreme Court issues contempt notice to Assam govt over demolitions