National: The Supreme Court on Monday criticized the growing trend of demolishing homes or properties of persons accused of crimes, calling it a case of "bulldozer justice". The court announced that it would issue guidelines to address the issue. Now BSP chief Mayawati's first reaction has come on this. 

Mayawati said, 'Action against criminal elements in the country should be taken as per the law and their family and close ones should not be punished for their crimes. Our party's government has also shown all this by establishing 'Rule of Law by Law'.

The BSP chief said, 'Bulldozers should now be used as per the decision of the Hon'ble Supreme Court. However, it would be better if there is no need to use it because criminal elements can be dealt with under strict laws.'
 

Strict action should be taken - Mayawati
She further said, 'Instead of using bulldozers on the families and close ones of criminal elements, strict action should be taken against the concerned officials who, in collusion with such elements, do not give proper justice to the victims. All governments must pay attention to this.'

It is noteworthy that the bench headed by Justice B.R. Gavai emphasized that unauthorized construction should also be demolished "according to the law" and the state authorities cannot demolish the property of the accused as a punishment. The bench remarked that not only the accused, but also the house of the convict cannot have such a fate. 

Let us tell you that while listing the matter for hearing after two weeks, the Supreme Court asked the parties to put their suggestions on record to prepare guidelines. Solicitor General (SG) Tushar Mehta, the second-highest law officer of the Center, said that any immovable property should not be demolished just because its owner / occupant is accused of being involved in any crime.