‘Duty of state to protect all people’: Amnesty India condemns bulldozer action in Mira Road

Amnesty International India issued a strongly-worded statement yesterday condemning the “targeted demolition of Muslim-owned properties” in Maharashtra, a day after a civic body razed “illegal” properties in Thane.

“It is alarming to note the impunity with which the Indian authorities have been enforcing their discriminatory de-facto policy of arbitrarily and punitively demolishing Muslim properties following episodes of communal violence. Such unlawful action against people suspected of violence, allegedly without notice or other due process requirements is a major blow to the rule of law,” the statement quoted Aakar Patel, chair of Amnesty International India’s board.

Fifteen shops had been demolished in Mira Road, allegedly without prior notice. This was after communal violence took place in the area on Sunday and Monday. According to The Indian Express, at least 12 FIRs were filed in connection with the violence. In similar action a day later, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation razed 40 structures without prior notice in Mohammed Ali Road in Mumbai.

Patel said Indian authorities “must immediately halt this policy of using demolition drives as an excuse to target Muslims and ensure that safeguards against forced evictions as outlined in international human rights standards are put in place”. 

He cited the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, which prohibits forced evictions, and said “adequate compensation” must be given to those affected.

“The authorities must also urgently ensure that those responsible for inciting violence and vandalism are brought to justice through fair trials. It is the duty of the state to protect all people within its jurisdiction, including minority communities,” the statement said.

Newslaundry has reported at length on “bulldozer justice” being practised across India. Read this piece on how the bulldozer has become a symbol of state power in India.

This report was published with AI assistance.