SC asks Centre to take realistic approach toward illegal buildings in Delhi
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New Delhi: The Supreme Court asked Centre to de-seal the illegal constructions in Delhi which were previously sealed. The move is to be made if such constructions have been rectified under the existing changed law.
The bench noted that the judiciary and concerned authorities need to adopt a realistic approach to the issue because a large number of unauthorised constructions exist across the city due to the non-enforcement of the law.
Justices S.K. Kaul and M.M. Sundresh chastised the Centre for bringing ordinances to protect illegalities including unauthorised colonies. The court also asked the Centre to look after the entire city, not just central Delhi's redevelopment.
It also suggested that the authorities explore the possibility of bringing illegal structures within the norms and then regularise them with a penalty.
The court was hearing matters linked to the validity of the Delhi master plan 2021. It was assisted by amicus curiae senior advocate ADN Rao and representative of municipal corporation Sanjiv Sen.
Two months ago, the Supreme Court said the capital city has been witnessing a planning disaster for years. It also criticised single plot houses being converted into multi-storeyed buildings. Authorities turn a blind eye to such illegalities.
The bench at the time emphasised that continued monitoring is key to preventing more illegal constructions. The court was addressing applications filed in the MC Mehta case dealing with the sealing of properties misused for commercial purposes.