The Supreme Court on Thursday told the Uttar Pradesh government that demolitions could happen only in accordance with the provisions of law and could not be retaliatory after hearing petitions that State authorities had taken the “appalling” step to wreak “vengeance” on the homes of people allegedly linked to violence in the aftermath of the Prophet remarks row.
“Ultimately, the rule of law should prevail… any action by you should be in accordance with the law,” Justice A.S. Bopanna, leading a Vacation Bench also comprising of Justice Vikram Nath, addressed the Uttar Pradesh government, represented by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and senior advocate Harish Salve.
Issuing notice to the State and listing the case for hearing next week, the Bench said the question was whether the State had followed due process of law before demolishing the properties in places such as Prayagraj and Kanpur.
