Delhi to get relief from sealing for one year

The Centre today approved promulgation of an ordinance to grant temporary relief from sealing against unauthorized construction in Delhi for one year.

New Delhi, June 15 : The Centre today approved promulgation of an ordinance to grant 'temporary relief' from sealing against unauthorized construction in Delhi for one year.

The Union Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh took the decision in a bid to avoid forcible action against slum dwellers, hawkers, street vendors and unauthorized encroachments.

The ordinance also gives relief to unauthorized development in the existing farmhouses involving construction beyond permissible building limits and schools, dispensaries, religious institutions and cultural institutions in rural areas built on agricultural land.

The National Capital Territory of Delhi Laws (Special Provisions) Ordinance, 2007 would provide temporary relief against forcible action to people of the above categories as to avoid undue hardship and irreparable loss.

The ordinance also intends to allow a balanced and well-considered view to be taken on policies involving such unauthorized development thereby to formulate schemes to address these issues.

A Bill will be moved in the coming session of Parliament to replace the Ordinance.

Earlier this year, the Supreme Court redirected the Delhi Police and the MCD to commence the sealing drive against unauthorized structures in the national capital, putting the Delhi Master Plan 2021 to legal testimony.

The Master Plan provides for the legalisation of around 1500 unauthorised colonies in Delhi, and aims to encourage the vertical development of the capital.

In February, the Centre has notified the New Delhi Master Plan 2021, which allows shops on many roads in the Capital.

ANI