Archive · 20 Aug 2025
Bombay HC Upholds Demolition Drive, Says Encroachers Have No Rights
The Bombay High Court has said that people who build things on the sidewalk in Mumbai don't have the right to do so.
The court agreed with the city government, the BMC, that it could tear down these structures.
Some people living in these structures tried to stop the demolition, but the court said no.
The court was worried about safety because people had to walk in the road due to the sidewalk being blocked.
The court also noted that the people occupying the footpaths had been notified, and offered alternative housing.
The court dismissed the case, and a special team will be created to stop these illegal actions across the city.
Bombay High Court ruled encroachers have no legal right to occupy footpaths.
The court upheld the BMC's demolition drive in Powai against illegal structures.
The ruling came in response to a plea from hutment dwellers seeking to halt the demolition.
The court cited public safety concerns, noting pedestrians were forced onto busy roads.
A special cell will be formed to monitor and take action against footpath encroachments.
- Who
- The Bombay High Court, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), encroachers, and residents of Tivoli Co-operative Housing Society.
- What
- The Bombay High Court upheld the BMC's demolition drive against illegal structures on a Powai footpath.
- When
- The ruling was made recently, following court directions from July 7, July 21, and August 12.
- Where
- Mumbai, specifically a footpath in Powai.
- Why
- The court cited public safety concerns, and the encroachers had no legal right to occupy public pavements.
Encroachers' Perspective
BMC and Tivoli's Perspective
Demolition During Monsoon
Encroachers' Perspective
The demolition drive should be halted, and the government’s resolution prohibiting such action during the monsoon should be observed. Encroachers should be heard before demolition.
BMC and Tivoli's Perspective
BMC, along with Tivoli’s counsel, view the applicants as “rank trespassers,” who were fully aware of impending demolition and had been offered alternate premises.
- Court
- Bombay High Court
- Subject
- Footpath Encroachment
- Location
- Powai, Mumbai
- Plaintiff
- Tivoli Co-operative Housing Society
- Defendant
- BMC and Encroachers
- Ruling
- Demolition upheld, encroachers have no legal right