'Half Of DU Students Are There': Delhi High Court Orders Action Against Unauthorised Restaurants At Majnu Ka Tila

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday (December 24) asked the civic authorities in the national capital to take action against various cafes and restaurants in Majnu ka Tila, located on the banks of the Yamuna river, operating without sanctioned building plans and safety measures.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela was dealing with a PIL filed by one Arnav Singh and another individual.

They contended that various unauthorized restaurants are operating in multi storey buildings in Majnu ka Tila, which is situated on the Yamuna river bank, and that the same are being used for commercial purposes.

The plea sought action against the buildings and establishment found operating without sanctioned building plans.

Another direction was sought on the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and Delhi Fire Services to enforce the National Building Code and applicable fire safety measures in the said areas to ensure that action required may be taken.

The counsel representing the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) stated that on the basis of the PIL, a suo motu complaint has been registered at the portal of the special task force.

Accordingly, the Court said:

“In view of the fact that suo motu complaint has already been registered by DDA, we dispose of the petition with a direction to the authorities to take appropriate action which may be warranted under law after reviewing the grievances of the petitioner.”

The Court directed that the decision and action as may be warranted in the complaint filed by DDA be taken with expedition, preferably within three months.

“Half of the DU students are there. Please ensure its (action) done,” Justice Gedela orally remarked.

Adding, the Chief Justice in a lighter vein said: “Except the momo cart, everything shall be removed.”

Title: Arnav Singh & Anr v. GNCTD & Ors