Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Congress leaders Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Mallikarjun Kharge have strongly condemned the practice of demolishing properties of individuals accused of crimes in BJP-ruled states, labeling it as “bulldozer justice” and describing it as a gross violation of legal principles.
The criticism was triggered after the bungalow of Shahzad Ali, accused of participating in violence during a protest, was demolished in Chhatarpur district, Madhya Pradesh. This action has sparked widespread outrage among opposition leaders, who view it as a deliberate tactic to instill fear rather than uphold justice.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra voiced her concern over the immediate and harsh punishment meted out without due process. She argued that only the judiciary has the authority to determine guilt and assign punishment, condemning the practice of demolishing the homes of accused individuals without a court’s verdict.
“If someone is accused of a crime, then only the court can decide his crime and his punishment. But punishing the accused’s family as soon as the accusation is made, taking away the roof from over their heads, not following the law, disobeying the court, demolishing the house of the accused as soon as the accusation is made – this is not justice. This is the height of barbarism and injustice,” Priyanka Gandhi Vadra stated.
She further emphasized the need to maintain a clear distinction between lawmakers, law enforcers, and lawbreakers, insisting that “governments cannot behave like criminals.”
Echoing these sentiments, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge described the demolition as both “inhumane and unjust.” He expressed grave concern over the repeated targeting of minorities in BJP-governed states, arguing that such actions have no place in a society that upholds the Rule of Law.
“The Congress Party strongly condemns the BJP state governments for their blatant disregard of the Constitution, using bulldozing as a tactic to instill fear among citizens,” Kharge remarked.
He also warned that resorting to such extreme measures is a dangerous precedent, stating, “Anarchy cannot replace natural justice. Offences must be adjudicated in courts, not through state-sponsored coercion.”
