The Supreme Court ruled the 2021 Prayagraj demolitions “inhumane and illegal,” awarding Rs 10 lakh each to six affected citizens
It reaffirmed that state action must respect constitutional rights
Invoking Article 21, the court recognised shelter as a fundamental right—beyond bricks and mortar, it guarantees privacy, safety, and dignity
Evictions without due process breach this right
Authorities issued a notice in December 2020, but demolished homes months later—without ensuring recipients had a fair chance to respond
The court called this “a shocking disregard” of law
The April ruling strengthens the earlier directive: No demolitions without 15-day notice, proof of communication, a fair hearing, and videographic documentation of the process
The apex court invoked Article 142 to impose penalties and fix personal liability on errant public officials—including the threat of contempt and prosecution for violations
The Supreme Court’s warnings may check misuse of power. But true justice depends on lower courts ensuring citizens’ rights are upheld—before bulldozers roll in