Hitting out at instant “bulldozer justice”, the Supreme Court on Wednesday laid down pan-India guidelines on property demolition and said the Executive cannot become a judge, convict an accused and demolish his house.

A bench of Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan said it will be “totally unconstitutional” if people’s houses are demolished just because they are accused or even convicted.

Delivering the verdict, Justice Gavai said it was not a happy sight to see women and children on the streets overnight.

The court ordered that no demolition shall be carried out without prior notice of the reason and within 15 days from the date of notice.

He ordered that the demolition proceedings be filmed.

The court stated that its instructions will not be applicable if there is unauthorized construction on public land or a demolition order by the court.

He said accused and convicts have certain rights and guarantees in the light of the Constitution and criminal law.

The apex court has given its verdict on the pleas seeking the formulation of guidelines on the demolition of properties in the country.