Resolution on the Bulldozer Rule in Uttar Pradesh and other BJP-Ruled States

Adopted at the National Meeting of All India Muslim Majlis-e-Mushawarat

Date: 21^st September, 2024

The All India Muslim Majlis-e-Mushawarat (AIMMM), representing diverse sections of the Indian Muslim community, is deeply concerned about the increasing use of bulldozers as a punitive tool in Uttar Pradesh (UP) and other­ BJP-ruled states. The term “Bulldozer Rule” has become synonymous with a form of extrajudicial and arbitrary punishment that disproportionately impacts marginalized communities, particularly Muslims. These actions often occur in the absence of due legal process, leading to widespread human rights violations, damage to livelihoods, and undermining the principles of justice enshrined in the Indian Constitution.

In recent years, this practice has been presented as a crackdown on “illegal encroachments” or properties linked to alleged criminals or protesters. However, the AIMMM believes this approach not only contravenes legal norms but also deepens social divisions and perpetuates discrimination against certain communities. This resolution seeks to address the implications of such actions and calls for immediate remedial measures in the interest of justice, communal harmony, and upholding democratic values.

Key Concerns:

1. Violation of Legal Process: The use of bulldozers to demolish properties without a proper judicial hearing or recourse to legal rights is a violation of due process. It undermines the rule of law and sets a dangerous precedent where the executive assumes the role of judge, jury, and executioner.

• Disproportionate Targeting of Marginalized Communities: Reports and ground realities suggest that the primary victims of such actions have been Muslims and other marginalized communities. This selective targeting raises concerns of communal bias and the weaponization of administrative power to intimidate and silence dissenting voices.

Impact on Livelihoods: The demolition of homes and businesses results in devastating consequences for families, pushing them into poverty and depriving them of their fundamental right to shelter and livelihood. These actions exacerbate existing socio-economic inequalities.

1. Communal Polarization: The “Bulldozer Rule” has heightened communal tensions and contributed to an atmosphere of fear and mistrust. Instead of fostering unity and inclusion, such measures promote division and alienation, which are detrimental to national integration and social peace.

• Erosion of Democratic Values: The use of state machinery to bulldoze properties without proper legal proceedings is an affront to democratic norms and human rights. It is essential to safeguard the constitutional framework that guarantees every citizen equality before the law and protection from arbitrary state action.

Demands:

1. Immediate Cessation of Demolitions: The AIMMM calls for an immediate halt to the use of bulldozers as a tool for punitive actions in Uttar Pradesh and all BJP-ruled states. Any legal action regarding property disputes or encroachments should follow due process as per established legal norms.

• Judicial Inquiry: We demand the constitution of an independent judicial commission to investigate the legality of past demolitions, and the extent of damage inflicted on innocent citizens. The commission should provide compensation and rehabilitation to the affected families where violations are established.

• Enforcement of Rule of Law: The AIMMM urges state governments to ensure that any property-related actions are carried out strictly under the rule of law, with proper legal proceedings, fair hearings, and opportunities for appeal.

• Restoration of Properties: In cases where demolitions were carried out unlawfully, the affected citizens must be given compensation, and efforts should be made to restore their properties or provide alternative arrangements.

• Protecting Marginalized Communities: The AIMMM calls for measures to protect marginalized communities from being disproportionately targeted. State governments must ensure that communal or ethnic bias does not influence administrative actions.

1. Promotion of Communal Harmony: It is imperative for the state machinery to foster communal harmony and promote peaceful coexistence. The AIMMM urges political and civil society leaders to work together in combating the rising tide of communal polarization and ensuring that no community is unfairly targeted.
2. Dialogue with Government: The AIMMM calls for constructive dialogue with the central and state governments to address the concerns raised by the community and work towards solutions that uphold justice, peace, and equality for all citizens.

Conclusion:

The AIMMM, while committed to the ideals of national unity and social harmony, cannot remain silent in the face of injustices and violations of constitutional rights. The “Bulldozer Rule” represents a dangerous shift towards authoritarianism and arbitrary state power, and it is our collective responsibility to resist such actions that harm the fabric of Indian democracy.

We stand firmly with the victims of these demolitions and demand that justice be served. Let us work towards a future where every citizen, regardless of religion or background, can live with dignity, security, and equality before the law.

Place: New Delhi