Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has thrown his weight behind the controversial bulldozer action, a crackdown method first popularized by Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath. In an explosive interview, Mann justified the demolition of alleged drug mafia properties, arguing that they were built on illicit wealth that had “ruined several households in Punjab.”
When confronted with the Supreme Court’s ruling that such demolitions are illegal, Mann dismissed concerns, stating, “It will take 20 years. A new generation will come by then. In a democracy, elected chalte hai, not selected. If anyone has a problem, they can go to court.” His remarks have added fuel to an already heated debate over the legality and ethics of using bulldozers as instruments of justice.
Bulldozer Politics Gains Momentum
What started as an aggressive law enforcement strategy in Uttar Pradesh has now become a nationwide phenomenon. Leaders across India are adopting bulldozer justice as a symbol of swift action against criminals, even as legal experts warn of constitutional violations. Critics argue that such actions bypass due process and set a dangerous precedent, while supporters hail them as a much-needed response to crime and corruption.
Legal or Just Popular?
The Supreme Court has repeatedly cautioned against arbitrary demolitions, stating that property rights cannot be violated without proper legal proceedings. However, Mann’s remarks suggest that political leaders see bulldozer action as a more effective, if controversial, tool of governance.
With the 2024 elections around the corner, the bulldozer narrative is expected to remain a hot-button issue. Whether the judiciary clamps down on this practice or political leaders continue to wield it as a weapon against crime remains to be seen. One thing is certain—bulldozer politics is here to stay.