In recent times, India has witnessed a concerning trend wherein state machinery has bypassed due process and established the dangerous precedent of bulldozer justice. This approach, where authorities take the law into their own hands and resort to demolishing alleged criminals' houses, undermines the very foundations of democracy, constitutional ethos, and the rule of law.
The state's encroachment into the domain of judiciary is a clear violation of the principles of separation of powers, an essential tenet of any democratic system. By acting as judge, jury, and executioner, the state jeopardizes the sanctity of the judicial system, making it prone to biases, errors, and abuse of power. Such actions erode citizens' trust in the judiciary, eradicating the fundamental belief that justice will be delivered impartially.
The bulldozer acts have been particularly problematic when it comes to dealing with alleged criminals from minority communities. The fact that social media and sections of society celebrated these extra-judicial measures is alarming, as it reflects a worrisome acceptance of injustice when it is directed towards certain groups. Justice should never be contingent upon an individual's or a community's identity; it must be blind to caste, creed, or religion. Equal protection of the law is a constitutional guarantee, and the state's actions must reflect that promise.
While a few voices spoke out against this overreach, the courts' silence on the matter has been equally concerning. The judicial system's role as the ultimate guardian of constitutional rights cannot be overlooked. Instead of turning a deaf ear and a blind eye to these actions, the courts must actively intervene and uphold the principles of due process of law.
A robust and efficient justice delivery system is crucial in deterring criminal activities. Fast-tracking court proceedings, ensuring that culprits do not roam freely, and instilling faith in judicial remedies are pivotal steps towards achieving this goal. When people witness timely and fair trials leading to convictions, they are more likely to rely on the law rather than resorting to vigilantism.
Restoring constitutional morality requires a collective effort. The state must refrain from acting beyond its jurisdiction and allow the judiciary to function independently. Moreover, political leaders must resist the temptation to appease certain sections of society for electoral gains. Instead, they should focus on empowering law enforcement agencies and judicial bodies to fulfill their duties effectively.
It is crucial for citizens to actively participate in promoting a just and fair society. Educating people about their rights and responsibilities, and encouraging them to seek justice through legal channels is essential. Moreover, civil society, media, and human rights organizations play a critical role in holding the state accountable and ensuring the preservation of democratic principles.
In conclusion, bulldozer justice is a dangerous deviation from the path laid down by our forefathers. Upholding constitutional morality and due process of law is not just a responsibility of the state; it is a collective duty of every citizen to safeguard the ideals of justice, equality, and democracy. Only through a united effort can we hope to cherish the dream envisioned by our forefathers and establish a truly just and equitable society for all.
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