Supreme Court shifts contempt pleas on ‘bulldozer justice’ to High Courts
The bench said factual disputes in each case need separate inquiries and kept interim protections in place while the High Courts hear the contempt pleas.
- On Thursday, July 16, 2026, the Supreme Court shifted contempt petitions alleging "bulldozer justice" to State High Courts, reasoning the apex court could not adjudicate individual factual disputes across India.
- Following the November 2024 judgment, which declared punitive demolitions an "arbitrary use of power," Justices mandated due process before property removal, stressing the State cannot engage in retributive action.
- Senior advocate CU Singh alleged "egregious violations" of court orders, claiming demolitions often follow local political pressure, though the bench noted encroachment disputes involve factual questions better suited for High Courts.
- While transferring cases, the bench ordered that interim protections remain in effect during proceedings before the High Courts, requesting they resolve matters preferably within four months.
- Justice Joymalya Bagchi emphasized that bulldozers should not be used for targeted reprisal, as the Supreme Court maintains that erring officials face contempt proceedings for ignoring established demolition guidelines.
16 Articles
16 Articles
SC refuses to consider contempt pleas on 'bulldozer action'
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday, July 16, refused to consider a batch of contempt petitions alleging that demolitions were carried out in violation of its 2024 judgment and asked aggrieved parties to approach the concerned high courts. A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice V Mohana noted that there are multiple questions that require consideration on basis of facts. The top court said …
SC Asks High Courts to Decide Contempt Pleas on Bulldozer Demolitions
Get latest articles and stories on India at LatestLY. The Supreme Court on Thursday asked High Courts to decide contempt petitions filed over the alleged violation of its November 2024 judgment laying down guidelines against the demolition of properties by bulldozers. India News | SC Asks High Courts to Decide Contempt Pleas on Bulldozer Demolitions.
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