In a strong statement issued by the Office of the High Commissioner Human Rights, on Monday, a group of independent UN human rights experts called on the Indian government to immediately halt the ongoing practice of arbitrary and punitive demolitions that disproportionately affect low-income households, religious minorities, and migrant communities.
“Demolitions carried out under the guise of punishment are a grave violation of human rights, especially when they target vulnerable communities,” the experts stated. “Such actions must not lead to homelessness and displacement. Those evicted must be ensured proper resettlement, compensation, and access to adequate housing.”
The experts behind the statement include:
Balakrishnan Rajagopal, UN Special Rapporteur on adequate housing and non-discrimination,
Nazila Ghanea, Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief,
Nicolas Levrat, Special Rapporteur on minority issues,
Gehad Madi, Special Rapporteur on the human rights of migrants.
Despite the Indian Supreme Court’s ruling in Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind vs. Union of India and Others, which laid down clear procedural safeguards against arbitrary demolitions, the UN experts expressed concern that bulldozer actions continue across the country. While some Hindu families have been impacted, Muslim communities have been “disproportionately targeted,” particularly in the aftermath of communal unrest or protests.
Authorities often justify these demolitions under the pretext of “anti-encroachment drives,” citing vague concerns like “national security” or the presence of “illegal immigrants”—without substantiating these claims or conducting proper investigations.
“These demolitions are frequently carried out without prior notice, legal process, or plans for resettlement,” the statement noted. “Residents who have lived in these areas for decades are forced to watch as their homes, businesses, and places of worship are razed to the ground.”
One of the most recent examples took place in Ahmedabad’s Chandola Lake and Siyasat Nagar areas. Between April 29 and May 29, 2025, more than 10,000 structures—including homes, shops, and mosques—were demolished, leaving thousands of people homeless and destitute.
“These demolitions not only destroy livelihoods but also create social instability, increase marginalisation, and erode trust in public institutions and the rule of law,” said the UN rapporteurs.
The experts stressed that “national security” or suspicions of “foreign nationality” should never serve as an excuse for forced evictions without legal due process. They urged the Indian government to ensure that any urban development is carried out in accordance with both Indian constitutional guarantees and international human rights norms.
The UN experts confirmed they have been in communication with the Indian government on these issues and are closely monitoring developments.
