MP Chief Minister Upholds Law in Response to Chhatarpur Demolition Query

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav stated on Saturday that no one is above the law, responding to Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra's criticism of bulldozer justice in Chhatarpur district. Yadav emphasised that the government is acting within Constitutional norms.

Government's Stance on Law and Order

Yadav defended the administration's actions, suggesting that if proper approval for construction is not obtained, the administration has the right to act. "Construction work should be done after taking due approval. If you don’t take necessary approval for construction activity and if you become synonymous with terror in various ways, then the administration is also free to do its job," he said.

He further added, "All I have to say is that no person is above the law. There is the rule of law. The government is taking action under the Constitutional provisions against those who break the law."

Congress Criticises Bulldozer Justice

Earlier in the day, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra condemned the demolition of Shahzad Ali's house in Chhatarpur district. She argued that only courts should decide on crimes and punishments. "Bulldozer justice is completely unacceptable and must stop. If someone is accused of a crime, then only the court can decide his crime and punishment," she stated.

She continued, "But punishing the family of the accused as soon as the allegation is made, taking away the roof from their heads, not following the law, disobeying the court, and demolishing the house of the accused as soon as the allegation is made - this is not justice."

Incident Leading to Demolition

The controversy began when Ramgiri Maharaj allegedly made anti-Islam remarks during a religious event in Maharashtra's Nashik district. This led to a protest by members of the Muslim community on Wednesday, which turned violent. The mob hurled stones and damaged vehicles, injuring several policemen.

The house of Shahzad Ali was demolished on Thursday under Kotwali police station limits. An official mentioned that a case was registered against 150 people for Wednesday's violence, with 46 individuals named specifically.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also remarked, "One who cannot fulfil rajdharma can neither work for the welfare of society nor the country." She reiterated her stance that bulldozer justice must end immediately.

Ramgiri Maharaj's comments had sparked significant unrest in Shah Panchale village in Sinnar taluka. The protest organised by the Muslim community escalated into violence, resulting in injuries to two policemen and damage to several vehicles.

The Madhya Pradesh government maintains that its actions are justified under Constitutional provisions. They argue that those who do not follow legal procedures for construction and become associated with terror will face administrative action.

The situation remains tense as both sides hold firm on their positions regarding law enforcement and justice.