Due process in eviction prevents forcible dispossession and demolition of structures in settled possession.

Forcible dispossession of persons in settled possession, including demolition of structures, is impermissible without following the statutory eviction procedure. The respondents were in possession of the land and had erected structures, so the appellants were required to act under law and could not resort to self-help. Dispossession without due process was contrary to the rule of law, and the High Court's approach was consistent with settled legal principles. The challenge therefore failed, the High Court's order was upheld, and the appeal was dismissed.

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Issues: Whether the appellants could dispossess the respondents and demolish the structures in their possession without following the procedure prescribed by law, and whether the High Court was justified in granting damages.

Analysis: The respondents were admittedly in possession of the land and had put up structures on it. The appellants were required to proceed in accordance with law under the statutory eviction framework and could not take recourse to forcible dispossession. Dispossession without due process was contrary to the rule of law, and the High Court's view was consistent with settled law.

Conclusion: The challenge failed. The order of the High Court was upheld and the appeal was dismissed.

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