Controversial Demolition: Nagpur's Bulldozer Justice Questioned

Civic authorities in Nagpur demolished an 'illegal' house of Fahim Khan, accused in Nagpur violence, just before the Bombay High Court ordered a stay. The court criticized the lack of a prior hearing and described the action as high-handed. The violence was linked to protests over Aurangzeb’s tomb.

On Monday, civic authorities in Nagpur took down a two-storey house owned by Fahim Khan without prior notice, amidst police and drone surveillance. The action occurred hours before the Bombay High Court's intervention ordered a halt, raising questions over the high-handedness of the operation.

The demolition followed violent protests linked to the removal of Aurangzeb's tomb, during which Khan, now jailed, was among those arrested. The High Court criticized the officials for not granting a hearing to homeowners beforehand, flagging the civically unlawful procedure.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that recovery would be sought from those responsible for the violence-induced damages while also addressing potential international links to the unrest. The legal hearing continues, scrutinizing the enforced demolitions' legitimacy.

(With inputs from agencies.)