Supreme Court Verdict Must Mark a Turning Point in Combating Hate Campaigns Against Muslims

Amnesty International has welcomed the Supreme Court's decision on bulldozer actions, urging it to halt hate campaigns against Muslims. The human rights organisation stated that this ruling should end the impunity surrounding the unlawful demolition of homes and properties. Amnesty's secretary general, Agnes Callamard, emphasised that such actions should never recur in India.

The Supreme Court has issued nationwide guidelines on property demolitions, stating that the executive cannot act as a judge to declare someone guilty and demolish their house. The court specified that no demolition should occur without a prior show-cause notice, returnable according to local municipal laws or within 15 days from notice service, whichever is later.

Supreme Court's Guidelines on Demolitions

The court highlighted that demolishing homes merely because individuals are accused or even convicted is unconstitutional. This decision aims to prevent unjust actions against minorities and ensure adherence to due process and rule of law. Amnesty International has documented these illegal demolitions, often targeting Muslims, undermining justice.

Amnesty International has urged chief ministers from states like Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Assam, and Gujarat to follow the Supreme Court's guidelines promptly. These states have been involved in unconstitutional actions, according to the organisation. Callamard stressed the need for accountability among authorities involved in illegal demolition drives.

Call for Accountability and Compensation

Individuals subjected to forced evictions and collective punishment must receive immediate compensation. Such actions violate both Indian constitutional and international human rights laws. Amnesty International released two reports in February documenting arbitrary demolitions in at least five states targeting minorities protesting discriminatory laws.

Callamard stated that these unlawful demolitions were often initiated at high government levels against Muslims. She reiterated that such lawlessness should never have been celebrated as "bulldozer justice." The Supreme Court's ruling reaffirms Amnesty's findings and calls for an end to these practices.

This judgment by the Supreme Court is seen as a potential turning point to deter hate campaigns and violence against minorities in India. Amnesty International hopes it will prevent deeply unjust actions from being repeated in the country.