The National Green Tribunal Tuesday directed the Govt of Delhi to remove illegal constructions in south Delhi's Jaunapur and Dera Mandi forest areas, saying forest laws can't be defeated by allowing encroachments.
A bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice A K Goel passed the order after SDM, Mehrauli assured that further action according to the law will be taken.
The NGT noted the submission that the proposed demolition on Aug 18, 2020, couldn't be held due to non-availability of the police force despite informing them well in advance to depute sufficient Police on the date of demolition.
While it is true that removing such encroachment is a challenge but if the Rule of Law isn't to be enforced, we will have a lawless society. Forest laws can't be defeated by allowing encroachments & thereafter pleading helpless in enforcing the law, the bench said.
The Green Tribunal directed that a further action was taken & status report be filed by March 31.
According to the status report filed by the Deputy Commissioner, South District, there are about 5000 encroachers & 750-800 structures set up illegally over a period of time & about 3000 encroachers are living at another camp.
The NGT was hearing a petition by south Delhi resident Amarjit Singh Nalwa & others seeking execution of a 2015 NGT order directing the Delhi Govt to remove encroachments.
The appeal said that unauthorised constructions are going on in the said area & the authorities are not taking any steps to stop them.
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