Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Tuesday condemned the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) controversial ‘bulldozer policy’, calling for action against criminal elements strictly within the framework of the law. She stressed that the families and close associates of those accused should not face punishment for the actions of the individual.
Mayawati, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), stated, “Action against criminal elements in the country should be taken as per the law and their family and close ones should not be punished for their crimes. Our party’s government has also shown this by establishing ‘Rule of Law by Law’. Bulldozers should now be used as per the decision of the Supreme Court.”
She further emphasized that instead of targeting families and associates, stringent action should be taken against officials who, in collusion with criminals, fail to provide justice to victims. Mayawati urged all governments to heed this call for accountability.
The BSP chief’s remarks come in the wake of the Supreme Court’s intervention on Monday, questioning the practice of demolishing houses of accused individuals. The court raised concerns about the lack of due process and vowed to establish nationwide guidelines on the issue.
The Supreme Court bench, led by Justices B R Gavai and K V Viswanathan, stated, “How can anybody’s house be demolished only because he is an accused? Even if he is a convict, still it can’t be done without following the procedure as prescribed by law.”
The court clarified its position, stating that it would not protect unauthorized constructions or encroachments on public roads. However, it stressed the importance of upholding legal procedures and preventing abuses of power. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing Uttar Pradesh, echoed the state’s earlier stance that demolition of property can only occur in accordance with established municipal laws and procedures. He emphasized that the mere accusation of a crime does not justify the demolition of a person’s property.
The Supreme Court’s intervention highlights the need for a clear and consistent approach to addressing criminal activity while protecting the rights of individuals and ensuring due process. The court’s decision to establish nationwide guidelines aims to prevent arbitrary actions and ensure fairness in the application of the law.
