Delhi HC directs MCD to survey illegal constructions around Jama Masjid, remove encroachments if found

Key Highlights

• If any illegal construction is found, appropriate action as warranted under law shall be taken.” The order was passed on a PIL filed through Advocate Hemant Choudhary on behalf of the local residents of Old Delhi, seeking removal of alleged encroachments on public parks and public land belonging to the MCD, as well as illegal constructions in the vicinity of Jama Masjid.
• The petition alleged that public land has been encroached upon by illegal parking facilities, hospitals, hawkers, and commercial stalls, and that open spaces around the mosque have been occupied through unauthorised private constructions.
• It further claimed that cold drink shops were operating on minarets and paid washrooms had been constructed, in violation of heritage and municipal norms.
• The petition also alleged that the Shahi Imam of Jama Masjid and his relatives had encroached upon open areas by constructing private houses, and that the Waqf property was being commercially exploited.
• It was contended that cafés were being run on terraces overlooking the mosque, in violation of religious sanctity and heritage protection norms.