The Supreme Court's directive to clear illegal constructions intensifies fears among residents who are facing potential demolitions, despite claims of unawareness and prior verification
Mohammad bin Ismail
NEW DELHI — Tension and fear have once again gripped the residents of Jamia Nagar following a Supreme Court ruling mandating the demolition of illegal constructions in Delhi’s Okhla village. The Court’s directive, issued recently, calls for the removal of encroachments on more than four bighas of public land in Khasra number 279, located near Muradi Road and the Khalilullah Mosque.
This order comes just days after a large-scale demolition drive in Taimur Nagar and Khizrabad, where over 100 homes were razed, leaving many residents displaced and anxious.
A bench comprising Justice Abhay S. Oka and Justice Ujjwal Bhuiyan has directed the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and the Delhi government to remove the illegal structures within the next three months. The Court also emphasised that those affected must receive at least 15 days’ notice prior to any demolition. “When we talk of ‘legal process’, it clearly means that before any demolition action, a 15-day prior notice will be given to all concerned persons,” the bench stated.
The ruling stems from a contempt petition related to non-compliance with a 2018 directive, which had previously ordered action against illegal construction and encroachments on public land. However, local residents remain largely unaware of the Court’s latest ruling or the impending demolitions.
Many residents living near the Khalilullah Mosque have expressed confusion and frustration, claiming they were never informed about the legal proceedings. “We did not receive any notice. If such action is taken, we will move court. We have been living here for decades,” said a concerned local.
Mohammad Khalid, an aide to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Amanatullah Khan, pointed out that much of the disputed land—including areas around Peer Baba Dargah and the Khalilullah Mosque — is still subject to ongoing legal proceedings. The land also includes the tomb of Syed Khizr Khan, founder of the Syed dynasty, which holds historical significance for the local community.
Despite the legal uncertainties, the Supreme Court has now ordered the removal of illegal structures from 2 bigha 10 biswa of land. However, ambiguity remains regarding jurisdiction, as some parts of the land fall under the DDA’s authority, while others are managed by the Delhi government.
The recent demolitions in Taimur Nagar and Khizrabad have intensified public anxiety. Bulldozers reportedly flattened more than 100 homes, including some built by the DDA decades ago. One local resident, who recently purchased a flat in the area, shared his distress: “I checked all the documents before buying the flat, but was never informed about the land dispute or the Court case. Now, the builders are nowhere to be found, and we are left in the dark.”
Many residents of Taimur Nagar, who have lived in the area for generations, are still grappling with the loss of their homes. “These were homes we had built our lives around, and now they’re just gone. It’s devastating,” said another affected resident.
Although the petitioner in the case has since withdrawn the contempt petition, the Supreme Court has decided to continue monitoring the situation and has taken suo motu cognizance of illegal encroachments across the region. Both the DDA and Delhi government have been asked to submit a progress report within the next three months, detailing the status of demolitions and encroachment removal.
As residents of Jamia Nagar brace for possible further demolitions, many are now exploring legal options. “If the DDA sends us demolition notices, we will approach the court for help,” said a long-time resident. Many families, who have lived in the area for over three decades, now find themselves entangled in a complex legal and bureaucratic battle.
For now, the situation remains uncertain. As the Court’s deadline looms, the fate of these residents hangs in the balance, with the legal system offering the last recourse for those who may be affected by the demolitions.
