When should a housing society in Mumbai start considering re...
From GST on JDAs to SEBI’s REIT reclassification and the S...
Stay ahead in the world of real estate with our daily podcas...
Stay ahead in the world of real estate with our daily podcas...
The Supreme Court has indicated that it may order a CBI investigation into unauthorized constructions in Chandni Chowk and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi's (MCD) inaction. A bench led by Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh criticized officials for allegedly ignoring violations, questioning how builders managed to erect illegal structures unchecked. The court has sought suggestions for an independent expert panel to assess the extent of encroachments. The matter, linked to a plea over demolitions in Bagh Deewar, Fatehpuri, will be heard next week, with a formal CBI probe under consideration.
The Supreme Court has indicated that it may order a CBI investigation into alleged illegal constructions in Chandni Chowk and the failure of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to address the issue. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh raised concerns about unauthorized buildings in one of Delhi's busiest commercial areas and questioned the role of MCD officials in allowing these structures to come up.
The court noted that builders have been able to construct unauthorized buildings while authorities remained inactive. Justice Surya Kant remarked that officials 'shut their eyes' to such activities, suggesting that the involvement of MCD officials should also be investigated. The MCD's counsel argued that action had already been taken following Delhi High Court orders, but the bench remained unconvinced, pointing out that enforcement only seems to happen when public interest litigations (PILs) are filed.
The court also criticized the High Court's approach, stating that cases involving unauthorized construction are sometimes dismissed too quickly based on statements from the MCD. The Supreme Court emphasized the need for a thorough probe and directed that notices be issued to all parties involved, with the matter set for further hearing next week.
To ensure transparency, the bench asked the petitioner to propose names of independent experts such as architects and engineers to form a committee that will inspect the site and assess the extent of unauthorized construction. The court stressed that both the physical structures and the administrative processes allowing such violations should be examined.
The case stems from a plea challenging the removal of illegal constructions at Bagh Deewar, Fatehpuri, in Chandni Chowk. While the MCD maintains that unauthorized structures have been cleared, the Supreme Court's remarks suggest that a deeper investigation may be necessary to understand how these violations occur and what actions are required to prevent future encroachments. The upcoming hearing will determine whether the court formally orders a CBI probe into the matter.
5th Jun, 2025
25th May, 2023
11th May, 2023
27th Apr, 2023