Gurugram's EWS Residents Protest Against Utility Cuts in DLF Phase 5

A severe confrontation has emerged in Gurugram's DLF Phase 5 as residents of 81 EWS quarters face the harsh reality of living without basic utilities. The Department of Town and Country Planning's decision to revoke Occupation Certificates has led to the disconnection of water and sewerage services, sparking intense protests. The situation became particularly volatile when one desperate resident threatened self-immolation by dousing himself in kerosene.

Regulatory Violations vs. Resident Rights

The DTCP's enforcement drive has identified approximately 7,500 houses across DLF Phases 1 to 5 for various violations. The primary issues include unauthorized expansions beyond permitted floors, 100% ground coverage against zoning laws, and illegal commercial usage of residential spaces. Properties on lanes C-1, C-2, C-4, C-5, C-6, and C-7, originally meant for 60-square-yard EWS housing, are particularly affected. 

Legal Implications

The authorities have taken stringent measures, including instructing the Wazirabad tehsildar to prevent property registrations and processing of gift deeds and rent agreements for these units. The implementation of 'red entries' in official records marks these properties as non-compliant with regulations. This action follows a Punjab and Haryana High Court order responding to a local RWA petition.

Residents' Perspective and Builder's Position

While DLF officials maintain they are merely following DTCP orders, residents allege targeted action to clear views for the upcoming luxury project 'Summit'. The protest has raised questions about selective enforcement, with residents demanding city-wide scrutiny rather than focusing solely on DLF areas.