Justice Nikhil Kariel was hearing petitions filed by 26 Nasirnagar residents, whose houses were demolished on May 30. (Express Photo)The court noted that junior officers against whom there were allegations of prima facie misconduct had already faced action, and questioned why senior officers, including those in the Corporation and police department, should be treated any differently. The court said allowing senior officers to remain in their positions while an inquiry examined their conduct could undermine the process, particularly when statements of officers working under their direct supervision may have to be recorded. In an order dictated by the court, Justice Kariel said, “…the state could not be appearing to be shirking its responsibility”. The court said that if a demolition is undertaken, the authorities must then follow the due process.