Recently, the Delhi Court directed the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and the Delhi Police to submit detailed status reports concerning illegal encroachments around the Tis Hazari Courts complex. The Court emphasised the necessity of addressing unauthorised obstructions that hinder access to the judicial premises and impact the administration of justice.
A petition was filed by one Devender Dhiryan, represented by Advocate Dheeraj Singh, seeking immediate removal of illegal encroachments and unauthorized occupation of public roads and footpaths in the vicinity of Tis Hazari Courts, Kashmiri Gate, Central Delhi. The petitioner contended that unauthorized loading and unloading activities by transport services, along with unlawful street vending and illegal parking, caused severe obstructions, frequent traffic congestion, and environmental concerns.
The petitioner argued that the illegal encroachments disrupted access to the courts, adversely affecting judges, advocates, litigants, and the general public. It was contended that the lack of enforcement of traffic regulations had exacerbated the situation, thereby infringing upon the fundamental right to access justice. Furthermore, the plea urged the Court to issue necessary directions to ensure the effective implementation of municipal and traffic laws.
The Court noted that while status reports had been filed by the respective Station House Officers (SHOs) in compliance with earlier directions, the reports were deemed "unsatisfactory and incomplete." The Court stated that “any hindrance to free and smooth access to judicial premises undermines the effective functioning of the justice delivery system."
Additionally, the Court directed the MCD and the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) to provide a comprehensive report identifying the vendors operating in the area, specifying those with valid "tehbazari" licenses and detailing the action taken against unauthorized vendors. The Court further instructed the authorities to address the presence of commercial and heavy vehicles operating in restricted zones and to elaborate on enforcement measures against such violations.
While granting a week’s time for compliance, the court directed the MCD, DCP (Traffic), and SHOs of Kashmiri Gate and Sabzi Mandi Police Stations to submit detailed and conclusive reports by the next hearing on March 26, 2024. The matter remains under judicial scrutiny, with the court expected to assess further compliance and consider appropriate remedial measures.
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