On Tuesday, the Supreme Court emphasized that public safety is of utmost importance, and any religious structure encroaching on roads, water bodies, or rail tracks must be removed. The court highlighted that India is a secular nation, and its directives on bulldozer action and anti-encroachment campaigns apply equally to all citizens, regardless of their religion.
“Whether it’s a temple or a dargah, it has to go. Public safety comes first,” remarked the bench led by Justice BR Gavai and Justice KV Viswanathan. The court was hearing petitions challenging the bulldozer action taken against individuals accused of crimes. State authorities have defended their actions, stating that only illegal constructions are being demolished in these cases.Solicitor General Tushar Mehta represented three states—Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh—in the matter.
“We are a secular country, and our directives will apply to everyone, regardless of religion or community. As for encroachments, we have made it clear—if they are on public roads, footpaths, water bodies, or railway line areas, they must be removed because public safety is paramount. If a religious structure, whether it’s a gurudwara, dargah, or temple, obstructs a public road, it cannot remain,” the court stated.
During the hearing, the Supreme Court questioned Mehta on whether being accused in a criminal case could be a justification for bulldozer action. Mehta responded, “Absolutely not, even in cases involving heinous crimes like rape or terrorism. As my lord said, it also cannot be that the notice is issued just a day before; it must be given in advance.”
Previously, on September 17, the Supreme Court had ordered that no properties, including those of accused individuals, should be demolished without its permission until October 1.
Source: News 18
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