Rehabilitation – Residents Await Clarity as Delhi High Court Reviews Eviction Dispute-
Rehabilitation – The Delhi High Court has directed authorities not to demolish the homes of residents living in the Race Course slum clusters who have not yet accepted rehabilitation offers or shifted to alternative accommodation. The court made it clear that no action should be taken against such residents until July 1, providing temporary relief to families facing displacement.
Court Grants Interim Protection
The observation came during a hearing on Monday before a vacation bench comprising Justices Tejas Karia and Madhu Jain. The bench was considering an appeal filed by residents of Bhai Ram Camp, DID Camp, and Masjid Camp. The petitioners challenged an earlier order of a single-judge bench that had declined to interfere with the eviction process underway in the area.
During the proceedings, the judges orally remarked that residents who had not voluntarily moved out should not face demolition action before July 1. The court indicated that authorities must refrain from disturbing those still residing in the settlement during this period.
Residents Raise Concerns Over Demolition Drive
The matter was brought before the vacation bench after the residents’ legal representatives sought an urgent hearing. According to the petitioners, demolition activities were carried out in parts of the locality on Sunday despite the legal challenge still being under consideration.
The residents argued that discussions surrounding rehabilitation were continuing and that there was an understanding that no forceful measures would be taken while the appeal remained pending. Their counsel maintained that rehabilitation-related concerns had not yet been fully resolved and therefore demolition should not proceed.
Government Defends Action
Representing the Centre, government counsel told the court that the demolition drive was conducted in accordance with the latest judicial directions. The counsel further stated that a previous request seeking protection from coercive measures had already been rejected by the court during an earlier hearing.
According to the government’s submission, authorities were acting within the framework of the existing court orders. The Centre maintained that the ongoing process was consistent with legal requirements and administrative decisions regarding the area.
Focus Remains on Rehabilitation Process
While hearing the matter, the bench emphasized the importance of rehabilitation for eligible residents willing to relocate. The judges also noted that rehabilitation schemes are intended for those who choose to move voluntarily and that an individual cannot simultaneously claim rights over two separate accommodations.
The court indicated that it would issue a formal order after considering the arguments presented by both sides. The dispute primarily revolves around the implementation of rehabilitation measures and the timing of eviction actions affecting families residing in the settlement.
Area Holds Strategic Importance
The Race Course slum clusters are located in a high-security zone of the national capital that also includes the official residence of the Prime Minister. Redevelopment and relocation efforts in the region have remained a sensitive issue due to the presence of long-established communities and the need to balance rehabilitation concerns with administrative requirements.
For now, residents who have not accepted alternative housing arrangements have received temporary protection from demolition until July 1. The upcoming order from the Delhi High Court is expected to provide further clarity on the future course of action regarding relocation and rehabilitation in the area.