Supreme Court Declares Bulldozer Justice Illegal, Emphasizes Right to Shelter

The Supreme Court has ruled that bulldozer justice is illegal, emphasizing the importance of the right to shelter. Chief Justice BR Gavai highlighted that the executive cannot act as judge and executioner. This ruling comes amid concerns over property demolitions in BJP-ruled states, which often bypass legal protocols. Gavai noted that a home represents years of hard work and aspirations for many families. His comments were made during a judges' gathering in Italy, where he discussed the Constitution's role in achieving socio-economic justice. This landmark decision raises questions about the future of property rights and legal processes in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 20, 2025, 13:50 IST

Supreme Court's Stance on Bulldozer Justice

In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court has deemed the practice known as bulldozer justice as unlawful. Chief Justice BR Gavai stated that the executive branch cannot assume the roles of judge, jury, and executioner simultaneously, as reported by a leading news outlet.

During the proceedings, the Chief Justice emphasized that the right to shelter is a fundamental right, according to reports.

Indian law does not support the demolition of properties as a form of punishment. Despite this, such actions have become prevalent in states governed by the Bharatiya Janata Party.

In a ruling last November, the Supreme Court declared the demolition of properties belonging to individuals accused of crimes as illegal. The court asserted that proper legal procedures must be adhered to before any removal of allegedly illegal structures.

Referring to this judgment, Gavai remarked that arbitrary demolitions that circumvent legal protocols infringe upon the rule of law and the fundamental right to shelter as outlined in Article 21.

He further noted that for many individuals, constructing a home represents the culmination of years of effort, dreams, and aspirations. A house symbolizes not just a physical structure but also the collective hopes of a family for stability and security, as highlighted by the Chief Justice.

These remarks were made during a gathering of judges in Italy, where Gavai discussed the Constitution's role in promoting socio-economic justice.