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The Supreme Court of India is set to hear a contempt plea filed by 48 residents of Assam against a proposed eviction and demolition drive in the state. The petitioners contend that the drive violates a recent interim order issued by the Court against bulldozer demolitions. The case is scheduled to be heard by a bench comprising Justices B.R. Gavai and K.V. Viswanathan on Monday, September 30, 2023.
The Supreme Court's interim order, passed earlier this year, prohibits authorities from demolishing properties using bulldozers without first obtaining court permission. This order was aimed at curbing the practice of 'bulldozer justice,' where authorities often demolish properties of individuals suspected of criminal activities without due process. The Court clarified that the order would not apply to demolitions required to clear unauthorized construction in public spaces.
The residents of Assam argue that the proposed eviction drive is a direct violation of the Supreme Court's interim order. They claim that the authorities are targeting them without providing them with any opportunity to be heard or defend themselves. The petitioners have requested the Court to intervene and prevent the demolition drive from proceeding.
This case highlights the ongoing debate in India regarding the use of bulldozers for demolition purposes. Critics argue that this practice is often used arbitrarily and unjustly, violating the fundamental rights of individuals. Supporters of the practice argue that it is necessary to deal with illegal construction and prevent encroachment on public land.
The outcome of this case will have significant implications for the use of bulldozers in demolition drives across India. The Supreme Court's ruling will provide clarity on the scope of its interim order and its application to specific situations. It will also determine the balance between the need for law enforcement and the protection of individual rights.
Source: Contempt plea in Supreme Court against proposed eviction, demolition drive in Assam