India: Supreme Court bans 'bulldozer justice'

Summary

India's Supreme Court ruled that authorities cannot carry out instant property demolitions, often labeled "bulldozer justice," against individuals accused of crimes without due process.

The court emphasized that only the judiciary has the authority to determine guilt, mandating a 15-day notice and a personal hearing before any demolition.

Critics argue that Prime Minister Modi’s BJP uses these "anti-encroachment" drives to disproportionately target Muslim communities under the pretext of removing illegal structures, raising concerns about religious discrimination and punitive actions.