Bhubaneswar, June 26(OT Webdesk): In a scathing indictment of administrative overreach, the Orissa High Court has termed the demolition of a 40-year-old community centre in Balasore as an alarming instance of “bulldozer justice.
Justice Sanjeeb Kumar Panigrahi ordered Rs 10 lakh in compensation to the affected party, including a personal penalty of Rs 2 lakh to be recovered from the salary of the Tehsildar who oversaw the illegal demolition.
The structure, locally known as a goshtigruha, was built in 1985 and renovated with public funds as recently as 2018.
Despite a court-issued restraining order on November 29, 2024, the Sub-Collector issued an eviction notice on December 13.
Shockingly, the demolition was carried out the following day without adherence to judicial directives.
Calling the act a gross violation of the Supreme Court’s demolition protocols, the High Court directed the Chief Secretary to initiate disciplinary proceedings against the Tehsildar and issue comprehensive guidelines to prevent similar incidents in future.
In addition, the Revenue Department was penalised Rs 70 lakh for procedural delays and disregard for lawful process, bringing the total compensation to Rs 82 lakh.
The judgment has reignited conversations on the misuse of administrative power in land acquisition and urban governance, with civil society calling for greater transparency and accountability in enforcement actions.
