Is It Legal for Municipal Bodies to Demolish Property Without Notice?

No. Municipal bodies cannot demolish property without giving prior notice and an opportunity to be heard.

The Supreme Court has held that demolitions without following due process violate Article 14 and Article 21. Courts have repeatedly said that authorities must issue a clear notice, state reasons, and allow reasonable time to respond.

Even in cases of alleged illegal construction, the Court observed that summary demolition is impermissible unless law expressly allows urgent action. Arbitrary demolitions amount to abuse of power and can attract judicial scrutiny.

Affected persons may approach the High Court for immediate relief, including restoration or compensation.