„Bulldozer Justice“: A Threat to the Rule of Law
The term „bulldozer justice“ has gained prominence in recent years as a euphemism for instant retributive action against accused persons, where their homes are demolished with much fanfare. This trend, initiated by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has gained traction across various states in India, with authorities resorting to this ’short-cut‘ method to assuage public sentiments in sensational cases.
The practice of bulldozer justice gained widespread attention in 2020, with high-profile demolitions targeting the buildings of gangster Vikas Dubey and MLA Mukhtar Ansari. The Mumbai corporation also demolished parts of a building belonging to actress Kangana Ranaut after she made critical comments against the Maharashtra Government. These actions, celebrated by certain sections of society, have led to more politicians adopting this populist extrajudicial tool as a substitute for proper investigation and fair trial.
However, bulldozer justice is a blatant affront to the rule of law and the principles of natural justice. Before an investigation is completed and the accused is pronounced guilty by a court of law, their homes are demolished as a penal action. This not only violates the right to a fair trial guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution but also inflicts disproportionate punishment on the families of the accused individuals.
The inhumane nature of bulldozer justice is evident in cases like that of Adnan Mansuri, an 18-year-old Muslim teenager whose home was demolished in Ujjain on false allegations. Reports indicate that marginalized groups, especially Muslims, have borne the brunt of these actions, with numerous demolitions targeting their properties in various states.
Despite some interventions by the judiciary, such as the Punjab and Haryana High Court’s order to halt demolitions in Nuh, bulldozer justice continues unabated. The Supreme Court’s response to petitions against this unconstitutional practice has been lukewarm, with the court failing to make a strong denouncement of these extrajudicial methods.
The pattern of bulldozer justice, where politicians announce demolitions soon after a crime or riot, raises serious concerns about the erosion of public confidence in the judiciary and the justice system. Executive authorities cannot be allowed to act as judge, jury, and executioner, bypassing the legal process and wreaking havoc on people’s lives under the guise of enforcing criminal law.
In conclusion, bulldozer justice poses a significant threat to the rule of law and the justice system in India. If this practice is not curbed, it will undermine the very foundation of our legal system and diminish the role of the courts in dispensing justice. It is imperative that all stakeholders, including the judiciary, take a strong stand against this unconstitutional and inhumane practice to uphold the principles of justice and fairness for all individuals.