Bollywood actor Kangana Ranaut had filed a petition in September challenging the BMC’s hurried demolition of parts of her bungalow in Pali Hill, Bandra. She sought justice as she alleged “abuse of power’’ and “mala fide action’’ by them. Now, in a major victory, she has won the case against the BMC (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation).
View this post on Instagram
As per a report in HT, the Bombay High Court has set aside the demolition order passed by the BMC on September 9. The HC held that the action to demolish a part of her bungalow was “actuated by mala fides” and was in complete disregard of her rights.
जो कभी मंदिर था उसे क़ब्रिस्तान बना दिया, देखो मेरे सपनों को कैसे तोड़ा, यह बलात्कार नहीं? pic.twitter.com/1ppQWiPjI2
— Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) September 17, 2020
In response to the verdict, Kangana thanked her supporters and posted a video message as well in another tweet:
With love and hope ❤️ pic.twitter.com/UkGweDY08p
— Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) November 27, 2020
When individual stands against the government and wins, it’s not the victory of the individual but it’s the victory of the democracy.
Thank you everyone who gave me courage and thanks to those who laughed at my broken dreams.
Its only cause you play a villain so I can be a HERO. https://t.co/pYkO6OOcBr— Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) November 27, 2020
The HC also stated that since the demolition was unlawful, Kangana’s claim for compensation is allowed, TOI reports. Although she had sought Rs. 2 crores in damages from the BMC, the bench has appointed valuers to assess and quantify the monetary damages. The exercise can be done in 3 months.
The HC division bench of Justices S J Kathawalla and Riyaz Chagla pronounced its judgment saying “we set out photographs and said they are all existing work. We make it clear that this court does not countenance unauthorized construction.. we do not approve any statements made by the petitioner … of the atmosphere in the state. Better advised to restrain herself…”
View this post on Instagram
The bench added that the action was initiated after Kangana’s inflammatory tweet. To this, the HC said, “Irresponsible statements however distasteful are best ignored.” It said, “Whatever be the folly of an individual…no actions against such individual by anyone much less by the state…must lie.’’
“We are of the view that the material before us makes a strong case for “malice in fact’ we are refraining from making a declaration as we have found there is “malice in law’,’’ said the Judges reading out portions from the Judgment.
What do you think of the judgment? Tell us!
Cover Image Source- Left