In a significant development in the aftermath of the recent Bahraich violence, three individuals accused of involvement in the unrest have filed a petition in the Supreme Court seeking immediate relief against demolition notices issued by state authorities. The notices, part of the Uttar Pradesh government's aggressive "bulldozer action" strategy, are scheduled for enforcement on Sunday, October 20, targeting properties linked to the accused. The petitioners, who work as hawkers and farmers, submitted an intervention application highlighting their concerns regarding the demolition orders.
They assert that their properties, which have stood for decades some ranging from 10 to 70 years old are being unfairly targeted as a punitive measure in response to the violence that erupted on October 13. The application references comments made by a local MLA, indicating that the demolition notice was prominently posted on the property of Abdul Hameed, one of the primary accused, with more actions anticipated. The three individuals argue that the government's claim of unauthorized construction is merely a guise to circumvent a prior Supreme Court stay on demolitions, which mandates that such actions must not proceed without legal authorization.
They emphasize that the short notice of just three days to contest the demolition orders denies them a fair chance to seek legal recourse to protect their long-standing properties. Additionally, they allege a discriminatory enforcement policy by the Uttar Pradesh government, citing the absence of similar notices for adjacent properties. The Public Works Department in Bahraich has issued demolition notices to 23 properties, including houses and shops, alleged to have been constructed illegally. Property owners have been given a mere three days to comply with the demolition order following the violence that gripped the area.
Block Development Officer Hemant Kumar Yadav confirmed the administration's readiness for action, stating, “We have been asked to be prepared for action. Three days were given to the encroachers, and the action would take place probably on Sunday or Monday as per the instruction.” The violence in Bahraich began during a procession for the immersion of a Goddess Durga idol on October 13, when tensions erupted over objections to loud music. The situation escalated dramatically when Ram Gopal Mishra climbed onto a rooftop, removed a green flag associated with Islam, and waved a saffron flag, leading to a violent confrontation.
Mishra was subsequently shot, resulting in widespread chaos, with attendees of the procession retaliating violently against properties and businesses associated with the targeted community. The unrest lasted for about two days, prompting authorities to suspend internet services in the region for four days to prevent further escalation. Following the incident, an FIR was lodged against six known individuals and four unidentified persons, charging them under multiple sections of the law. As the Supreme Court considers the plea for urgent relief, the actions taken by state authorities continue to raise questions about the implications of the "bulldozer action" policy and its impact on local communities in Bahraich. The situation remains tense, with many residents closely monitoring the developments as the scheduled demolition approaches.