The Supreme Court has declined to intervene in the demolition proceedings targeting properties in Delhi’s Batla House and Jamia Nagar, directing petitioners to seek recourse through appropriate administrative channels.
A bench comprising Justices Sanjay Karol and Satish Chandra Sharma refused to grant interim relief to 40 property owners who had approached the court seeking a stay on demolition notices issued by civic authorities. The petitioners contended that their properties, located in Khasra Nos. 271 and 279, were being wrongfully targeted under a May 7 directive from the court, which they claim did not pertain to them.
The residents argued that they had not been made parties to the original proceedings leading to the May 7 order, and thus were denied an opportunity to present their case. They asserted possession of valid documentation, including title deeds and utility bills, evidencing continuous occupancy since before 2014. Additionally, they claimed eligibility under the Recognition of Property Rights Act, 2019, and the PM-UDAY scheme, which aims to regularise unauthorised colonies in Delhi.
Despite these assertions, the court maintained its stance, stating that its earlier order directing action against unauthorised constructions did not warrant interference at this stage. The matter has been scheduled for further hearing in July.
The demolition notices, served on May 27, have caused considerable distress among residents, many of whom have lived in the area for decades. The notices, issued by the Uttar Pradesh Irrigation Department and the Delhi Development Authority , cite encroachment on public land as the basis for the eviction orders.
Residents have expressed shock and dismay over the suddenness of the notices, particularly given the proximity to Eid al-Adha, a significant religious festival. Many have reported health issues and psychological stress stemming from the uncertainty surrounding their housing situation.
Notice to UP govt in Vrindavan Corridor dispute 