Supreme Court of India Addresses Demolition Drive Concerns
The Supreme Court of India recently addressed a plea concerning alleged unauthorized demolition activities. A bench comprising Justices B R Gavai, PK Mishra, and KV Viswanathan decided not to entertain a petition from the National Federation of Indian Women (NFIW). The court noted that the petitioner was neither directly nor indirectly affected by the alleged demolitions.
The NFIW argued that despite the Supreme Court’s previous order to pause bulldozer actions, incidents occurred in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Rajasthan without permission, violating the court’s directive. However, the court was not convinced by these arguments.
On October 1, the Supreme Court extended its stay on unauthorized demolitions, reserving an order on creating nationwide guidelines for such actions. The interim order prevents demolitions without permission but does not apply to unauthorized constructions on public roads, footpaths, or railway lines, including religious structures.
The court emphasized the importance of public safety, stating that any structure, whether a temple, dargah, or gurudwara, obstructing public pathways must be removed. The court expressed concern over the misuse of municipal laws and the need for a law addressing unauthorized constructions, irrespective of religious or cultural significance.
Previously, on September 17, the court ordered a halt to demolitions without permission until October 1, clarifying that this did not apply to unauthorized constructions on public infrastructure. The court continues to hear petitions regarding the use of bulldozers for demolishing properties, with concerns raised about the impact on minority and marginalized communities.
Doubts Revealed
Supreme Court of India -: The Supreme Court of India is the highest court in the country. It makes important decisions on legal issues and ensures that laws are followed correctly.
Demolition Drive -: A demolition drive is when buildings or structures are taken down, usually because they are built without permission or are unsafe.
National Federation of Indian Women -: The National Federation of Indian Women is an organization that works to protect and promote the rights of women in India.
Unauthorized demolitions -: Unauthorized demolitions are when buildings are torn down without following the proper legal process or without permission from the authorities.
Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan -: These are states in India. Each state has its own government and laws, but they also follow the rules set by the central government of India.
Public roads and footpaths -: Public roads and footpaths are areas meant for everyone to use, like streets and sidewalks. They should be kept clear for people to walk and drive safely.
Public safety -: Public safety means making sure that people are safe and protected from harm in public places.
Religious significance -: Religious significance means something is important or special because of its connection to a religion or religious beliefs.