Supreme Court Halts Mathura Demolition Drive, Imposes Status Quo on Krishna Janmabhoomi
Ten News Network
New Delhi, August 16, 2023: The Supreme Court has intervened in the ongoing demolition drive by railway authorities aimed at clearing illegal constructions near Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura, specifically around the Krishna Janmabhoomi.
A bench consisting of Justices Aniruddha Bose, Sanjay Kumar, and SVN Bhatti has issued notice to the Centre and other concerned parties in the case.
In response to the situation, the bench stated, “Let there be status quo as regards the subject premises for a period of 10 days. List after one week.”
The petitioner’s lawyer, representing Yakub Shah, informed the bench that a significant number of houses, approximately 100, have already been demolished. He highlighted that around 70 to 80 houses still remain and expressed concern over the potential irrelevance of the entire situation due to the ongoing demolitions. He also pointed out the timing of the exercise, stating, “They conducted the exercise on a day when Uttar Pradesh courts were closed.”
The issue at hand pertains to the demolition of settlements in close proximity to the Krishna Janmabhoomi, an area of religious significance.
The Supreme Court’s intervention marks a significant development in the matter, potentially offering a reprieve to the affected residents and creating a legal pause for further assessment. The order for status quo indicates a temporary halt in the demolition process to allow for a more comprehensive examination of the case.
