Headline
The Supreme Court of India orders UP to pay ₹25 Lakh for illegal demolition and calls actions “High-Handed”
Summary
The Supreme Court of India reprimanded authorities of Uttar Pradesh for illegally demolishing homes without due process in a road-widening project. The Supreme Court ordered ₹25 lakh interim compensation to the petitioner and ordered a thorough investigation into the actions involving the officials.
Key Facts
- Case Name: In Re Manoj Tibrewal Akash, W.P.(C) No. 1294/2020
- Judges Name: Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, Justice JB Pardiwala, and Justice Manoj Misra
- The case, based on a 2020 suo motu writ petition, followed complaints about unauthorized and illegal demolitions in Maharajganj, Uttar Pradesh.The findings of NHRC showed minor encroachment but no proper legal process was incorporated.
Legal Insights
The Supreme Court of India stresses the need for fair process, stating that demolishing homes without prior notice or clear demarcation of encroachment amounts to lawlessness. It ordered the State to follow a legal framework before removing encroachments.
Impact
This judgment strictly mandates adherence to due process in cases of eviction across India, deterring misuse of power by authorities of government in similar situations.
Why It Matters
The ruling reaffirms the rights of citizens’ against arbitrary state actions, setting a precedent for safeguarding property rights and ensuring accountability of public officials.
Source: