The Delhi High Court has directed the Delhi Development Authority to initiate appropriate legal proceedings against restaurants and eateries operating out of unauthorised constructions in the Majnu Ka Tilla area, observing that such activities violate norms related to the preservation of the Yamuna riverbed as well as essential building safety regulations.
The order was passed by a bench led by Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya while hearing a Public Interest Litigation that sought court intervention to address illegal commercial activity in and around Majnu Ka Tilla and New Aruna Nagar. The petition requested a detailed inspection of buildings being used for restaurants, cafés and similar establishments without approved building plans, and urged authorities to take strict action against such violations.
The petitioner further sought directions to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and other concerned agencies to strictly enforce the National Building Code and fire safety standards in the area. It was argued that the locality attracts heavy public footfall, particularly from students and visitors, and that the presence of unauthorised structures poses serious safety and security risks.
During the hearing, counsel representing the Delhi government informed the court that the land in question belongs to the Delhi Development Authority and that a Special Task Force is already examining the issue. The court was told that previous directions exist for the removal of encroachments and that an ongoing drive is underway to address illegal constructions.
The counsel appearing for the DDA also submitted that, based on the petitioner’s complaint, a suo motu case has already been registered on the Special Task Force portal and that the matter is currently under official consideration. The complaint, the court was informed, has been formally taken on record and is being processed in accordance with established procedures.
While making its observations, the bench noted that Majnu Ka Tilla is a popular destination for students, particularly those from Delhi University, and expressed concern over the prolonged inaction by authorities. The court remarked that unauthorised buildings have existed in the area for decades, with little or no effective enforcement, despite the risks involved.
After considering the submissions made by all parties, including the DDA and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, the court noted that the issues raised in the petition are already being examined by the relevant authorities. In light of this, the High Court disposed of the PIL, directing the authorities to proceed with appropriate action strictly in accordance with the law.
