Celebrities Not Above Law, Says Gujarat HC in Yusuf Pathan Case

The Gujarat High Court has ruled that former Indian cricketer and Trinamool Congress MP Yusuf Pathan is an illegal occupant of government land in Vadodara and must vacate it.

Justice Mona Bhatt, while dismissing Pathan’s petition, made it clear that no one is above the law, not even celebrities or public figures. The case relates to a plot adjoining his bungalow in the Tandalja area of Vadodara.

The court stressed that granting exemptions to famous people despite their violations would create a “wrong message in society” and weaken public trust in the judicial system. It also referred to Supreme Court rulings which underline that the law must apply equally to all.

The judgment observed:
“As a national representative and public figure, Pathan’s responsibility to follow the law is greater. Celebrities influence public behaviour and values. Giving concessions to such individuals despite flouting rules harms society and sends a damaging message.”

The dispute dates back to 2012, when the Vadodara Municipal Corporation issued a notice asking Pathan to vacate the land. Instead of complying, he approached the High Court, seeking permission to retain the land. He even argued that he and his brother, former India fast bowler Irfan Pathan, needed the plot for security reasons and requested the state to let them purchase it.

However, in 2014, the Gujarat government rejected his demand. Despite this, he continued occupying the land. The High Court has now held him to be in “unauthorised possession” and directed him to vacate the property.

With this ruling, the Gujarat High Court has reinforced that neither celebrity status nor political power can shield anyone from legal accountability. The order sends out a clear reminder that the rule of law is supreme and applies equally to all citizens.