Assam government in trouble over bulldozer action? Supreme Court seeks reply on contempt petition

New Delhi : The Supreme Court on Monday issued a notice to the Assam government seeking its response on the contempt petition filed by 48 citizens. The petition accused the state government of violating the apex court’s order to demolish the structures. The apex court also directed the state government officials to maintain status quo till the next hearing.

Reply will have to be given within 21 days

In the Supreme Court, a bench of Justices BR Gavai and KV Vishwanathan heard the case. The bench issued a notice directing the Assam government to file its reply in 21 days. Petitioner’s lawyer Huzefa Ahmadi termed the Assam government’s action as a ‘violation of the apex court order’. However, the bench emphasized that there was no sabotage by the Assam government.

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Government accused of ignoring the decision

The court said in its directions, … no vandalism has taken place yet… we will issue a notice. Also said that no demolition will be done without the approval of the court. 48 petitioners filed a petition in the Supreme Court saying that Assam authorities have ignored the court’s decision and marked their houses for demolition.

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Citing violation of fundamental rights

The petitioners claim that they have been living on the property for decades on the basis of a power of attorney agreement with the original landholders. The petitioner also argued that the demolitions were carried out without giving the residents an opportunity of a fair hearing and without depriving them of their homes and livelihoods. This is a violation of fundamental rights under Articles 14, 15 and 21 of the Constitution.