calcutta-hc-declines-urgent-hearings-in-demolition-cases-says-let-human-lives-be-saved

In the aftermath of a tragic incident where nine individuals lost their lives due to the collapse of an unauthorised building, the Calcutta High Court took a firm stance on Tuesday, refusing to expedite hearings for petitioners seeking a stay on the demolition of their structures. 

 

Justice Amrita Sinha, presiding over the matter, emphasised the paramount importance of prioritising human lives over legal procedures.

 

Despite pleas from three different lawyers representing various petitioners for urgent hearings, Justice Sinha stood firm in her decision, stating that the court would address such matters in its usual course.

 

Rejecting a lawyer's request for an urgent hearing, she asserted, "The court is not granting any leave in demolition matters."

 

The refusal to expedite hearings came amidst concerns raised by petitioners regarding the scheduled demolition date of March 20, fearing that a delayed hearing would render their efforts futile. 

 

However, Justice Sinha remained resolute in her stance, emphasising the imperative of ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals over legal proceedings.

 

In another instance echoing similar circumstances, Justice Sinha reiterated the court's decision, allowing the demolition to proceed uninterrupted, underscoring the court's unwavering commitment to prioritising human lives.

 

The tragic incident that prompted these legal deliberations occurred when an under-construction five-story building collapsed in the Garden Reach area, resulting in the loss of nine lives and injuries to several others.

 

Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim confirmed that the structure was an unauthorised construction, further highlighting the pressing need for stringent enforcement of building regulations and safety standards.

 

The Calcutta High Court's firm stance on prioritising safety over legal proceedings underscores the gravity of the situation and the imperative of ensuring robust measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.