No More Malls in Chandni Chowk: SC Orders Halt on Demolitions, Questions MCD’s Silence

In a strong intervention, the Supreme Court of India has stayed the demolition of properties in the Fatehpuri area of Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, amid mounting allegations of unchecked illegal construction and civic inaction by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD).

Case Triggered by Disputed High Court Orders

The case was brought before the apex court through a petition challenging two Delhi High Court orders that dealt with unauthorized structures in Chandni Chowk. One order sought the removal of illegal constructions at Bagh Deewar in Fatehpuri, while the other excluded certain properties from a PIL initiated by concerned residents.

Allegations were raised suggesting that illegal constructions continued in the area, allegedly enabled through tacit support or negligence by the civic authorities. This prompted the Supreme Court to step in and assess the situation independently.

Supreme Court Comes Down Heavily on MCD

A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh issued a strict warning to the MCD, indicating that any non-compliance with the Court's orders would be treated as contempt. The Court also made it clear that no further conversion of residential homes into commercial spaces would be tolerated in the locality.

Criticizing the corporation’s passive approach, the bench expressed shock that entire residential zones had been transformed into commercial hubs, with malls and showrooms mushrooming across the area. Justice Kant strongly rebuked the MCD by questioning its inaction: “By 13 February 2025, houses were being dismantled and commercial structures were rising, and you sat idle? Your blind eyes don’t see what’s happening?”

Independent Inspection Commission to be Formed

Due to doubts over the reliability of MCD’s reports, the Court has called for a third-party inspection. Petitioners have been asked to propose names of experienced civil engineers and architects for forming a joint inspection committee. This panel will visit the site and furnish a detailed, unbiased report to the Court.

Hearing Deferred, Evidence Collection Encouraged

The Supreme Court has adjourned the matter to May 23, 2025. Until then, the MCD has been directed to submit an updated inspection report. Additionally, the Court has allowed petitioners and intervenors to record video or photographic evidence of any further illegal activity and share it with the Court.

News Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and court proceedings. It does not constitute legal advice. Readers are advised to follow official updates and consult legal experts for specific concerns.