Delhi High Court To Hear Plea Against Batla House Demolition On March 5

The Delhi High Court will hear a petition on March 5 seeking relief from the ongoing Batla House demolition. The Dhobi Ghat Rights Forum filed the petition, demanding alternative land for Dhobi Ghat and a halt to demolition until new housing is provided. The petition also seeks compensation for displaced families.

The petitioner’s lawyer urged the court for an early hearing. During the single-bench hearing, the Delhi Development Authority’s (DDA) lawyer informed the court that the demolition had already started. He clarified that the municipal body took action based on the National Green Tribunal’s order and that the DDA had no direct role in the process.

Residents Demand Alternative Housing

The affected families claim they have lived in the area for 10 to 15 years. They state that the authorities marked their slums with identification numbers, which are recorded on their Aadhar cards. The settlement housed 800 to 1000 huts, and the DDA has already demolished about 300.

Residents allege that officials did not issue prior notice before demolishing their homes. They claim that authorities arrived with police and carried out the demolition without warning. Many families lost their homes overnight and have nowhere to go.

The petitioners argue that demolition without proper rehabilitation violates their rights. They demand a clear policy for relocation and compensation. The court’s decision will determine whether the affected families receive relief. The hearing on March 5 will be crucial in addressing the future of those displaced by the Batla House demolition.

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