Bombay High Court Slams "Shocking" Police Conduct in Ambedkar Printing Press Demolition

The Bombay High Court has sought a formal response from the Mumbai Police Commissioner regarding the "shocking" 2016 demolition of the historic Buddha Bhushan Printing Press.

Founded by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the press was allegedly razed at midnight by a mob while police remained inactive. The bench expressed outrage at a 2026 police affidavit that attempted to justify this inaction.

The Court questioned the "unprecedented" nature of a demolition occurring between midnight and 6 a.m. and directed the Commissioner to identify officers on duty.

Furthermore, the BMC must clarify if such nocturnal demolitions are standard practice or an isolated illegality.

[Prakash Ambedkar v. State of Maharashtra & Ors.]