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The Supreme Court's verdict on bulldozer action has brought a sense of relief to victims of demolition drives across Uttar Pradesh. The court's judgment, which sets pan-India guidelines for property demolition, has been welcomed by those who have suffered loss due to the controversial practice. The verdict mandates that no property should be demolished without a prior show cause notice and the affected individuals must be given 15 days to respond. This decision aims to prevent arbitrary and unlawful demolitions, ensuring due process and fairness.
In Prayagraj, Javed Mohammad, who had his house demolished in June 2022, expressed his satisfaction with the verdict, highlighting the hardships his family faced due to the sudden demolition. He emphasized that no notice was given before the demolition, which he believes was driven by the administration's eagerness to demonstrate swift action. Similar accounts emerged from Bareilly, where houses were demolished in Gausganj village following a clash. Residents whose houses were demolished, including Rasidan, Nafisa, and Saira Khatoon, are now seeking compensation through legal action.
The Uttar Pradesh government, while acknowledging the Supreme Court's verdict, maintains that demolitions were carried out after due process and on properties built on encroached lands. However, the court's emphasis on procedural fairness and the victims' accounts suggest a lack of transparency and due process in several cases. The verdict highlights the need for stricter adherence to legal protocols and ensuring that individuals are not deprived of their property without proper notice and opportunity to defend themselves. The aftermath of the verdict will be closely observed, as the affected individuals pursue compensation and the government responds to the court's directives.
The Supreme Court's ruling on bulldozer action has far-reaching implications, not just for Uttar Pradesh but for the entire country. It serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding fundamental rights, including the right to property, and ensuring that state action adheres to the rule of law. The case has also brought to light the need for greater accountability and transparency in government action, particularly when it involves forceful demolitions. The court's verdict signals a shift towards a more equitable and just approach to property demolition, emphasizing the importance of fairness and procedural safeguards in a democratic society.
Source: Bulldozer action victims in UP welcome SC verdict, say will seek compensation