In his final ruling before retiring, Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud condemned the practice of “bulldozer justice,” taking aim at state governments that demolish personal property without following due process, particularly when individuals are accused of criminal activity. The judgment, delivered by a bench led by CJI Chandrachud and including Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, strongly criticized such actions, emphasizing the need for proper legal procedures.
The case centered on the 2019 demolition of journalist Manoj Tibrewal Aakash’s ancestral home, which was carried out by local authorities without adhering to proper legal procedures.
The demolition was preceded solely by a public announcement through drumbeats (munadi), with no formal written notice or explanation given to the occupants. The Supreme Court ruled that the action was not only illegal but also a breach of fundamental principles of natural justice.
In his final judgment, CJI Chandrachud declared, “Bulldozer justice is simply unacceptable under the rule of law. If allowed, it would render the constitutional right to property under Article 300A meaningless.” He stressed that justice must never be dispensed through arbitrary demolitions, warning that such actions pose a threat to the fundamental principles of a fair and impartial legal system.
The court has directed state authorities to pay interim compensation of ₹25 lakh to Manoj Tibrewal Aakash, the petitioner affected by the illegal demolition, and has ordered a disciplinary inquiry into the officials responsible. In his judgment, CJI Chandrachud emphasized, “Justice through bulldozers is unknown to any civilized system of jurisprudence.” He further warned of the dangers posed by high-handed and unlawful behavior, stating that if allowed, such actions could lead to property demolitions being used as a tool for selective reprisals, based on extraneous reasons.,
CJI DY Chandrachud will step down on Sunday after nearly two years at the helm of the judiciary. Justice Sanjiv Khanna is set to succeed him as the Chief Justice of India, taking office on Monday, November 11.
