The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to interfere with the Bombay High Court’s interim order directing the demolition of 17 illegally constructed buildings in Thane, Maharashtra, despite a petition citing the displacement of hundreds of families.
A bench comprising Justices Ujjal Bhuyan and Manmohan upheld the High Court’s decision and commended the firm action taken. The petitioner, who owns a unit in one of the structures, had argued that around 400 families would be rendered homeless by the demolition and that his rights were being violated.
“Kudos to the High Court for taking a right decision,” Justice Manmohan remarked during the hearing. “See, you encroached on some third party’s land and built a property without taking any sanctions… There is no rule of law and please see, these are persons with underworld connections.”
The court further stated that the petitioner “should not be heard” considering the illegality involved in the construction. The top court backed the High Court’s strong position against illegal developments, especially those with criminal links.
On June 12, the Bombay High Court ordered the demolition of these buildings, reportedly built without permission and on land owned by others, allegedly by builders linked to the underworld. It also empowered the Thane Municipal Corporation to proceed without seeking further judicial clearance.
The High Court had earlier expressed shock over the scale of unauthorized construction and delayed civic action, and had ordered a judicial inquiry into the matter. It also directed the Thane Municipal Commissioner to survey all illegal structures across the city — including in developing areas and green zones — and to act promptly against them.
The ruling signals a strong judicial stance against unauthorized construction and sets a precedent in favor of urban regulation, rule of law, and accountability in municipal governance.