Mass Demolition Drives in Delhi: A Violation of Rehabilitation Policies?

In a significant political move, Congress leader and Lok Sabha MP Manickam Tagore has introduced an adjournment motion in the lower house, urging a discourse on the 'ongoing mass demolition drives in Delhi.' Tagore highlighted that these activities sharply violate the 2015 Delhi Slum and JJ Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy, displacing thousands in the process.

Tagore's request emphasized the breach of legal norms and election promises by the ruling party, notably the pledge to ensure 'pucca' houses for slum dwellers. Under the 2015 policy, slums existing before January 1, 2006, cannot be demolished without alternative housing, while new encroachments post-2015 need proper notices and arrangements. These safeguards, he argued, have been ignored.

The Congress MP further criticized the executions of these demolitions without adhering to statutory provisions like the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board Act, 2010. The tensions escalate as Delhi's Chief Minister, Rekha, assures budget allocations for slum development and stresses the importance of providing rightful housing upon displacement.

(With inputs from agencies.)