hc-directs-action-over-illegal-construction-near-jama-masjid

The Delhi High Court has issued a directive to law enforcement agencies and civic authorities to take swift legal action against the alleged illegal encroachment and unauthorised construction taking place at Meena Bazar, located near Jama Masjid.

 

The court has stressed the need for prompt intervention, underlining that public land should not be encroached upon and unlawful construction activities must be dealt with according to the law.

 

The plea, which was filed by the NGO Yuva Sangharsh Smiti, highlighted the failure of the police to act on the encroachment of vacant public land and the unlawful construction at Meena Bazar.

 

The petition, represented by Advocate Hemant Choudhary, pointed out that these activities were happening right across from the Parade Ground, Jama Masjid, a renowned heritage site in the heart of Delhi.

 

The court took note of the plea and disposed of the matter, ordering the concerned authorities to take appropriate legal measures to address the encroachment issue.

 

It further underscored the importance of preserving public land and heritage sites, urging the law enforcement agencies to ensure that the encroachers and those involved in illegal construction face legal consequences.

 

Jama Masjid, one of the most iconic and historically significant monuments in India, is known for its cultural importance, particularly during the Mughal era. It stands proudly opposite the Red Fort, another UNESCO-protected monument, both of which fall under the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

 

According to ASI regulations, no construction is permitted within a 200-metre radius of these heritage buildings to preserve the integrity and sanctity of the area.

 

However, despite these regulations, the past few weeks have seen a surge in commercial activities and unlawful construction at Meena Bazar.

 

The petition claims that encroachment has been taking place on vacant public land, with illegal structures being raised near Charti Lal Goel Heritage Park, adjacent to Jama Masjid. 

 

The activities are allegedly being carried out by a network of land grabbers, politicians, and builders, with the intention of exploiting the area for personal or commercial gain.

 

The court’s directive has called for immediate action, urging authorities to stop these encroachments and prevent further illegal construction.