Diplomat Correspondent
Jammu, DD, Advocate Mohsin Dar has called for an immediate and impartial inquiry into the recent demolition of a journalist’s house by the Jammu Development Authority (JDA), terming the incident a “serious breach of due process and constitutional safeguards.”
The demolished house, according to the family, had been their residence for nearly 40 years and was occupied by elderly parents and minor children. They allege that the JDA carried out the action without issuing any prior notice, a claim that has sparked widespread concern across civil society and media circles.
Adv Mohsin Dar said that even if the land is recorded as state or JDA property, no government authority can bypass the mandatory legal procedure, which includes serving notice, providing an opportunity of hearing, and ensuring humane and proportionate action. “Demolition without notice is not only arbitrary but also violates Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution. No citizen can be deprived of shelter without following the rule of law,” he stated.
He further questioned why only this particular house was singled out despite reports that several neighbouring structures fall on similar land categories. “Selective action erodes public trust and raises doubts about fairness in enforcement,” he added.
The advocate urged the Lieutenant Governor’s administration to order a fact-finding inquiry, fix accountability, and ensure that such incidents do not recur. He also appealed to JDA to release an official clarification on whether statutory procedure was followed before the demolition.
“As a society, we cannot allow arbitrary actions that leave families—especially elderly and children—homeless overnight. Transparency and due process are non-negotiable,” Adv Dar said.DD
