The Patna High Court has ordered the immediate opening of a residential house that had remained sealed for nearly two years and imposed a fine of Rs 50,000 on the Bihar government for administrative negligence. The court held that sealing a citizen’s house for a prolonged period without valid reasons and without following due legal process is unjustified.
The case concerns a private residential property that was sealed by the administration around two years ago. The house owner approached the Patna High Court, contending that the action was arbitrary and illegal. During the hearing, the court was informed that even after sealing the house, no concrete action was taken for a long period and no clear or reasoned order was placed on record.
During the proceedings, the High Court expressed b displeasure over the conduct of the state government and the concerned officials. The court observed that imposing such restrictions on an individual’s property amounts to a violation of fundamental rights. It noted that if the administration intended to take action, it was required to do so strictly in accordance with law and within a reasonable and defined timeframe.
The court directed that the concerned house be opened with immediate effect, enabling the owner to use the property. It further directed the Bihar government to pay Rs 50,000 to the house owner as a penalty. The court clarified that the amount was imposed on account of administrative negligence and the hardship caused to the citizen.
The court also observed that in such cases, ordinary citizens often suffer mental, financial and social hardship. It recorded that the house remaining sealed for two years resulted in substantial loss to the owner, which could not be adequately remedied merely by passing an order.
