The Bombay High Court on Friday termed the demolition of actor Kangana Ranaut’s bungalow by the BMC as “action with malafide intent”, while also appointing a valuer to assess the quantum of damage, PTI reported. 

The court further said that it does not condone the use of “muscle power” by authorities against citizens. 

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The action undertaken by the BMC hardly leaves “any manner of doubt” that it was unauthorised, the bench of Justices S J Kathawalla and R I Chagla noted.

The bench was hearing petition filed by Ranaut challenging the demolition carried out by the BMC at her bungalow in Bandra’s Pali Hill on September 9. 

Ranaut also sought Rs two crore from the BMC in damages.

“The civic body has proceeded to act wrongfully and illegally against the rights of a citizen,” the bench said. 

Regarding compensation, the bench said it will appoint a valuer, who will hear the BMC and the petitioner on the damages caused by the demolition. 

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“The valuer shall by March 2021 pass appropriate orders on compensation,” the bench said. 

Meanwhile, the BMC said that Ranaut had illegally carried out renovations and additions to the bungalow, breaching the approved plan. 

Ranaut filed the petition on September 9, when the demolition was initiated by the BMC and the court stayed the demolition in an interim order the same day.