Supreme Court Demands Immediate Halt to Illegal Chandni Chowk Constructions

In a recent development, the Supreme Court of India has taken a firm stance against the unauthorized constructions taking place in Delhi's Chandni Chowk area, despite a previous court-ordered ban. On Friday, a bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi rebuked the ongoing illegal activities and directed the Delhi Police Commissioner to take immediate action.

The court ordered the police to deploy patrolling teams in the area and ensure that all demolition orders issued by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi are strictly enforced. The bench warned that any illegal or unauthorized constructions must be sealed forthwith, and that anyone found "putting even a brick" should be arrested on the spot.

Expressing concern over the apparent collusion between builders and municipal officials, the Supreme Court bench stated that such practices would be viewed seriously. The court also directed the authorities to furnish details of the builders involved and said suitable penal action would be taken against them.

The case of an elderly woman residing on the ground floor of a property, where the second floor was illegally converted into commercial space, further highlighted the gravity of the situation. The bench questioned the authorities on their inaction, stating that they only took action when the court passed an order, but were nowhere to be seen during the initial illegal construction.