No Demolitions Across India Without Supreme Court’s Nod Till October 1

New Delhi: Even if there is one instance of illegal demolition, it is against the ethos of our Constitution, the Supreme Court said on Tuesday while directing that authorities across the country will not demolish properties, including of those accused of crime, till October 1 without seeking its permission.

A bench of Justices B R Gavai and KV Viswanathan clarified that its order will not be applicable to unauthorised structures on public roads, footpaths etc. “Even if there is one instance of an illegal demolition… it is against the ethos of our Constitution,” the bench observed. It said till October 1, the next date of hearing, no demolition be carried out “without seeking leave of this court”. The top court was hearing petitions alleging properties of those accused of crime were being demolished in several states illegally.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the bench that a “narrative” was being built over the demolition of properties. He said there was a petition before the apex court which alleged that because the person belonged to a particular religion, his property was demolished. “Let them bring to your lordships’ notice one instance of demolition where the law is not complied (with),” the law officer said.