Nagpur, Maharashtra – A wave of demolitions carried out by Nagpur municipal authorities targeting properties linked to individuals accused in recent violent clashes has ignited a legal and political firestorm. The Bombay High Court‘s Nagpur bench has intervened, halting further demolitions and raising serious questions about the legality and proportionality of the city’s actions.
The controversy stems from violent incidents that occurred in Nagpur on March 17, 2025. The violence, reportedly triggered by misinformation regarding the alleged desecration of religious items during protests, resulted in significant damage and injuries. In the aftermath, authorities initiated a crackdown, focusing on those suspected of involvement.
The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) began demolishing properties allegedly associated with the accused, citing violations of building regulations and unauthorized construction. Notably, the two-story residence of Fahim Khan, identified as a key accused in the violence, was razed early Monday morning.
However, the swiftness of the demolitions and the apparent targeting of specific individuals drew sharp criticism. Petitions were filed in the Bombay High Court, challenging the legality of the NMC’s actions. Petitioners argued that the demolitions were carried out without due process and violated Supreme Court guidelines designed to protect properties from punitive demolitions based on criminal allegations.
Key points of the unfolding situation include:
- Rapid Demolitions:
- The NMC’s actions were characterized by their speed, with significant portions of properties being demolished within hours of notices being served.
- The demolition of Fahim Khan’s residence occurred before the High Court could issue a stay order.
- Legal Challenges:
- Petitioners argued that the demolitions were unlawful and violated Supreme Court rulings against punitive demolitions based on criminal accusations.
- Concerns were raised about the lack of adequate notice and the denial of opportunities for property owners to present their case.
- High Court Intervention:
- The Bombay High Court’s Nagpur bench intervened, issuing a stay on further demolitions.
- The court expressed concerns about the “high-handed” nature of the NMC’s actions and questioned the lack of due process.
- The court has requested the NMC to provide explanations for the actions taken.
- Property Ownership complexities:
- It has been highlighted that some of the properties are registered under family members of the accused, making it a very complicated situation.
- Political Context:
- Statements made by political figures indicating a “bulldozer policy” have added to the controversy, with critics alleging that the demolitions were politically motivated.
- The violence itself has also been linked to rising communal tensions, adding layers of complexity to the situation.
The High Court has scheduled further hearings to review the legality of the demolitions and to determine whether the NMC followed proper procedures. If it is determined that the demolitions were unlawful, the authorities could face legal consequences.
This situation has brought to the forefront the delicate balance between law enforcement and due process, and the potential for abuse of power. The events in Nagpur have sparked a nationwide debate on the use of demolitions as a form of punitive action, and the legal and ethical implications involved.
