Global: JCB machinery allegedly used in state-led demolitions targeting marginalized communities in Palestine, India, and Kashmir
British construction company J.C. Bamford Excavators Limited (JCB) has been accused of complicity in human rights violations across Palestine, India, and Kashmir, as its machinery is allegedly being used in state-led demolitions that disproportionately target marginalized communities. Critics argue that JCB's excavators and bulldozers are central to forced evictions, home demolitions, and the destruction of livelihoods, with allegations that these actions often take place without due process and in violation of international human rights standards.
JCB machinery has reportedly been used in occupied Palestine to demolish Palestinian homes and infrastructure, facilitating illegal Israeli settlements. Amnesty International has called JCB "a key supplier" in these human rights violations, enabling forced displacement. In India, JCB bulldozers have become symbols of "bulldozer justice," allegedly targeting Muslim and marginalized communities in politically motivated demolitions. In Jammu and Kashmir, since Article 370's revocation, JCB equipment has been linked to demolition drives disproportionately affecting Muslim residents. Rights groups argue these demolitions contribute to state-led displacement and demographic shifts.
The Business and Human Rights Resource Centre reached out to JCB with regards to these allegations, but JCB did not respond.