The Supreme Court on Wednesday ordered the Delhi municipal authorities to maintain the Status Quo in the Jahangirpuri area, which was the scene of communal violence last week, and said it would hear petitions challenging the demolitions on Thursday.
“Preserve the status quo. Chief Justice of India N V Ramana ordered, “List it before the appropriate bench tomorrow.” Senior Advocate Dushyant Dave brought up the issue during mentioning hours when the CJI is alerted to cases that require immediate attention.
“This is completely unauthorised, unconstitutional demolition which is now ordered in Delhi, in Jahangirpuri area, where allegedly riots took place,” Dave, who appeared for Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, told the court.
According to the Municipal Acts, prior to carrying out demolitions, notice must be given, he said, adding that the drive-in Jahangirpuri was carried out without giving any notice.
“Without any notice to anyone, they have a right to appeal against that under the Municipal Corporation Act, which requires at least 5 to 15 days notice…,” Dave explained. He pointed out that the demolition had begun at 9 a.m., despite the fact that it was scheduled to begin at 2 p.m.
“knowing that we are going to mention it,” he said. With reports of the demolition despite the SC order, Dave rushed back to the CJI shortly after 12 p.m. to raise the issue. “I’m depressed.” Despite the fact that the world is aware that this court has issued orders, they are not going to stop.
Taking note, the CJI ordered that its decision be communicated “immediately” through the Registrar General or Secretary-General.
“NDMC (North Delhi Municipal Corporation) carrying out such acts is Malafide and against the process of law, as has been established by various Statutes as well as this Court of law,” the Jamiat argued in its petition.
“The actions…are arbitrary and illegal,” it added, “because the people whose houses or establishments will be demolished have not been served any notice by the authorities” and “cause irreparable harm to the residents of the area who have lived there for more than three decades and it is their only source of livelihood.”
At around 10 a.m. on Wednesday, bulldozers arrived in Jahangirpuri, New Delhi, to begin an anti-encroachment drive. This action comes days after communal riots erupted in the area.
A total of 12 CRPF companies have been deployed throughout the city. Several people described the drive as a vengeful act.
Amanatullah Khan, an AAP leader, claimed it was an attempt to disrupt Delhi’s peaceful atmosphere. Regarding the Supreme Court’s order to halt the demolition in Jahangirpuri, the petitioners’ lawyer has sent a legal notice to the civic body, police, and Delhi Chief Secretary. The notice requests that the authorities follow the court’s order.