New Delhi —In a significant development, the Supreme Court on Tuesday put an immediate stay on the demolition drive being carried out in the Fatehpuri area of Delhi’s Chandni Chowk. The court strongly criticized the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) for proceeding with the demolition without adequate notice and sensitivity towards the affected residents, reported the LiveHindustan.
A bench headed by Justice B.R. Gavai expressed serious displeasure over the MCD’s actions, questioning the legality and urgency of the move. The court instructed the civic body to submit a comprehensive report justifying the demolition, while warning that such arbitrary actions would not be tolerated.
The top court’s intervention came after petitions were filed highlighting that several structures were being razed without proper procedure or time for occupants to respond.
The court’s decision comes as a relief for local shopkeepers and residents who had expressed fear and outrage over the sudden use of bulldozers in the historic locality. The bench further emphasized the need to balance civic regulations with humanitarian considerations.
The matter will be heard next week, with the Supreme Court seeking clear accountability from MCD officials regarding the decision-making process behind the demolition drive.
