NEW DELHI, April 9 -- The Supreme Court has rebuked the Uttar Pradesh administration, warning that the "rule of law has been given a go-by" as it ordered the immediate sealing of 44 illegal properties in Meerut, including four schools and two hospitals, operating without approvals or basic safety norms. A bench of justices JB Pardiwala and KV Viswanathan said that the case reflected a "shocking and highly disturbing" state of affairs where authorities allowed residential plots to be converted into commercial establishments over time without sanctioned plans or regulatory oversight. "The facts and figures.are shocking and highly disturbing. We are out of words to express our dismay," noted the court in its order after examining a status report detailing widespread violations. Coming down heavily on the state machinery, the bench underscored that governance cannot bend to pressure or expediency at the cost of legality. "Rule of Law has been given a go by," it said, noting that constructions had mushroomed in blatant violation of planning norms, with no permissions or sanctioned layouts. "The rule of law also requires the government to exercise its power in accordance with well-established and clearly written rules, regulations and legal principles. The rule of law also requires the government to exercise its authority under the law," it emphasised. "What is more shocking and startling is that.there are five to six schools and hospitals.being run in buildings.absolutely illegal and unauthorised," said the bench, questioning how such establishments secured electricity connections and regulatory clearances. Raising concerns over public safety, the court pointed out the absence of fire safety compliance and the inherent risks posed to occupants....