The Delhi High Court has reprimanded the Delhi government for its failure to release funds for the construction of residential flats for judges in the capital.
The court stressed that providing adequate accommodation to judges should be a priority for the government.
Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyay and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela gave the government three weeks to make a positive decision on the delayed projects, including land in Dwarka and CBD Plot Shahdara.
The bench instructed the petitioner’s counsel to explore whether they could use any available land to construct official accommodation for judges.
The bench emphasized the urgency of addressing the shortage of housing for judges and requested a response on potential land options for the housing projects.
Delhi High Court Criticises Acute Shortage Of Judges’ Flats
During the hearing, the court learned that only 348 flats were available for judges out of the total sanctioned strength of 897, creating a shortage of 549 flats.
The shortage of housing for judges has been a longstanding issue, with many judges currently living in accommodations scattered across different locations.
The bench emphasized that the Delhi government and all relevant authorities should treat providing official accommodation to judges as a priority.
It pointed out that, given the nature of their work and duties, authorities should not leave judges without proper housing.
Government’s Delays And Election Excuse
Earlier, the Delhi government’s lawyer promised a meeting on December 10, 2024, to address the funding for the pending housing projects.
However, the lawyer revealed that the meeting did not take place due to the assembly elections.
The bench expressed displeasure and questioned why they had not held the meeting despite scheduling it earlier.
“The election is over; why is this not a priority now?” the bench said. “We do not like pretentious things. Do not push us against the wall. We are simply asking you to implement the Supreme Court’s orders.”
The Delhi High Court’s sharp remarks highlighted the urgency of addressing the housing shortage for judges, with the court reminding the government of its responsibilities under the Supreme Court’s directives.
The government’s continued delay in action has raised concerns, and the court has now given a clear deadline for progress on the matter.
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