Unauthorized-colonies: SC lashes out at Centre, Delhi govt, civic agencies
"People of Delhi aren't cattle. Everybody has some respect," said the SC yesterday, while reprimanding the Centre, Delhi Government and civic agencies for failing to curb mushrooming unauthorized colonies. The bench added that this results in pollution and lack of green areas. The court was hearing about Delhi Laws (Special Provisions) Act, 2006 and subsequent legislations, which protect unauthorized construction from being sealed.
'You're doing nothing, that's why we have to monitor'
The SC bench comprising justices Madan B Lokur and Deepak Gupta said that people, especially children, are suffering due to the lackadaisical attitude of the Centre, Delhi government, DDA and MCDs. Additional Solicitor General ANS Nadkarni, representing the Centre, suggested SC monitor the issue as it has done in the past, to which the bench retorted, "Does the SC have nothing more to do?"
Traders strike: 'Complete breakdown' of law and order, says SC
Stating that there is "complete breakdown" of law and order in Delhi, SC asked about the ongoing sealing drive and strikes by traders. Nadkarni asserted it is the duty of Delhi government and civic agencies to ensure that regulations are being followed, but assured the Centre would hold meetings with them and come up with a solution.
Get rid of commercial establishments in residential areas: SC
When SC questioned Centre about commercial establishments in residential areas, Nadkarni again said that only Delhi Government and civic agencies have power to regulate. "You also have the power. You cannot say that you do not have the power," replied the bench. It added that shops selling essential things like milk and bread should remain, but others operating without fire safety provisions should go.
