Supreme Court Ruling on “Bulldozer Raj”

• The Indian Supreme Court ruled against “bulldozer raj,” where municipal authorities demolish homes if accused of an offence.

• The ruling criticized the practice, stating it violated the rule of law and the separation of powers.

• The court declared that no person’s home could be demolished merely because they were accused or convicted of an offence.

• The Court issued guidelines to prevent state action, but the delay in addressing this threat and lack of clarity on its application to all demolitions are highlighted.

• The Court introduced guidelines to prevent the state from using demolitions as a political tool.

• The guidelines require transparency and due process, with municipal officials required to explain in writing why extreme demolition is the only option.

• In cases of illegal demolitions, erring officers would be personally liable.

• The effectiveness of these guidelines will depend on how other Benches implement them.

• The Court made an exception for structures on certain public land, excluding slums and informal settlements