Supreme Court Stays DLF Demolition Drive, Gives Relief to 2,100 Residents

In a major relief for residents, the Supreme Court has stayed the Punjab and Haryana High Court order that directed demolition of unauthorised constructions and sealing of commercial activities in DLF phases 1 to 5, affecting 2,100 families.  

The Supreme Court granted an initial four-week relief on Friday after various resident groups filed special leave petitions seeking protection from the demolition drive. The stay came just as the Department of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) was preparing to execute the High Court's directive.

Enforcement Halted 

"We went to the spot to execute the High Court order, but later learned that the Supreme Court has stayed it. However, we are yet to review the Supreme Court order," said Amit Madholia, DTCP enforcement officer.

Residents welcomed the decision with relief. "We are victims in this case. This is not government land. We have possession of our own land and pay all necessary taxes," said Satish Yadav, a local resident. 

Background of the Case 

The case began when DLF Phase 3 RWA President Sameer Puri filed a petition leading to the High Court's February 13 order. After detailed surveys, the officials have identified around 4200 properties violating building regulations. 

The violations are major in DLF 3's U-Block where the buildings have been extended to six to eight floors which is far beyond permissible limits. Many 60-square-yard houses have been converted into commercial spaces, shops, paying guest accommodations, and guest houses.

Legal Action Continues

The original case stems from a 2021 public interest litigation filed by DLF City RWA regarding illegal constructions across DLF phases. The petitioners argued that unauthorized buildings have deteriorated the quality of life and demanded demolition of multi-story structures. 

While residents have temporary relief, both sides plan to present their cases before the Supreme Court for a final resolution of this long-standing dispute over building violations.