The Supreme Court of India has issued a notice and directed a status quo in a contempt case filed against the Rajasthan authorities for allegedly demolishing a property in violation of its earlier ruling. The petition claims that the demolition disregards the apex court’s November 13, 2023 judgment, which had laid down specific safeguards to be followed before any demolition action.
The bench of Justice B.R. Gavai and Justice A.G. Masih passed the order after hearing arguments by Senior Advocate Sanjay Hegde, who appeared for the petitioner. Justice Gavai initially suggested that the matter be taken up in the jurisdictional High Court, noting the delay in Supreme Court hearings.
“Why don’t you go to the High Court? Every petition here... it will not come up even after a year...” – Justice B.R. Gavai
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In response, Advocate Hegde informed the Court that similar matters are already pending before it and argued that the current case involves serious issues, including a valid court decree in favor of the petitioner and payment of regularization charges. Despite this, the property was demolished a day after a legal notice was served.
“Despite that, the Collector refuses... sometimes, the Collectors are young people, hot-blooded... If Your Lordships just ask them to explain their conduct...” – Advocate Sanjay Hegde
He further expressed concern that such demolitions are continuing unchecked despite the Court's earlier ruling, calling it a “contagion” that undermines legal efforts.
“It’s almost like the English phrase ‘writ in water’... we keep banging our heads.” – Advocate Sanjay Hegde
Taking note of these submissions, the Court issued a formal notice and ordered that the current status of the site be maintained, especially since a nearby Veterinary Hospital is reportedly attempting to take over the land.
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The property in question, located near the Veterinary Hospital on Air Force Road, Jaisalmer, was allegedly demolished on January 22, 2025, even though the petitioner holds a court-approved title and had complied with regularization requirements.
“The Respondents acted in utter disregard of the directives laid down by this Hon’ble Court and failed to provide prior notice or opportunity for a hearing before demolishing the Said Property although its title was held by the Petitioner.” – Contempt Petition
According to the plea filed through Advocate-on-Record Anas Tanwir, officials trespassed on the property on January 21, 2025, asking the petitioner to vacate it. Even after presenting legal documents and serving a notice, the demolition was carried out the very next day without due process.
“The said demolition was not an administrative lapse but a calculated act of defiance... if such flagrant contempt is left unchecked, it will erode public faith in the authority of this Hon’ble Court.” – Contempt Petition
Case Title: PUKH RAJ Versus PRATAP SINGH AND ORS., CONMT.PET.(C) No. 112/2025 in W.P.(C) No. 295/2022
