Court Halts Home Demolitions in Bareilly

A division bench of the Allahabad High Court has intervened, issuing a stay on the demolition of 27 houses in Bareilly's Shahabad area. The court emphasized that no home can be demolished without due process, directing authorities to refrain from coercive action until a final order is passed by the competent authority. This decision aims to ensure residents are afforded a fair hearing and a reasoned decision.

The writ was disposed of with clear directives for each petitioner to file an individual reply within four weeks. The competent authority, the civic body, must then decide the matter within two months, providing a speaking order after granting a personal hearing. This stay will remain in effect for three months or until the final order, whichever is earlier, ensuring protection for the residents.

The case escalated after residents received notices on October 9, declaring their homes illegal and demanding demolition within 15 days. Petitioners countered by presenting evidence of years of tax collection by the Bareilly Municipal Corporation, questioning the basis of the illegality claims. The court's intervention provides a crucial pause for due deliberation.