The Delhi High Court has issued a stern warning to the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB), stating they risk being held in 'wilful disobedience' of judicial orders. This comes after the authorities failed to provide rehabilitation to five households from the demolished Madrasi Camp in Jangpura, despite a court mandate.
Court's Frustration with Authorities' Inaction
On Tuesday, December 2, 2025, Justice Sachin Datta expressed strong disapproval of the continuing delay. The court noted that while a meeting was held in September as directed, 'resolution still continues to evade the concerned authorities'. The provisional allotment letters for alternative accommodation have still not been issued to the five petitioner families.
The case has a long history. The settlement, home to Tamil-speaking migrants, was demolished on June 1 following a High Court order in March, which observed that the camp was blocking the Barapullah drain. Prior to demolition, the court had directed DDA and DUSIB to ensure amenities at flats in Narela for eligible dwellers and facilitate possession.
Controversy Over 'Beneficiary Contribution'
A key point of contention emerged during Tuesday's hearing. The DDA informed the court that provisional allotment letters would be provided, but subject to the families paying a 'beneficiary contribution' of over Rs 1 lakh as per a 2015 DUSIB policy.
However, the petitioners' counsel successfully argued that this demand was discriminatory. They pointed out that the 189 other families found eligible for rehabilitation from Madrasi Camp were not asked to pay this fee upfront and have already been provided accommodation in Narela. Only 182 families were deemed ineligible initially.
Justice Datta agreed, noting 'there is no reason why the petitioners be treated differently'. The court then directed the DDA to comply with its earlier order and 'issue provisional demand-cum-allotment letter without insisting on beneficiary contribution'.
Legal Timeline and Next Steps
The legal battle for these five families began after a DUSIB appellate body held them eligible for rehabilitation. The DUSIB CEO later overturned this decision, forcing the families to approach the High Court. In May 2025, the HC stayed the CEO's order and directed the DDA to provide provisional allotment letters.
In a subsequent order on September 26, 2025, the court recorded that the authorities were prima facie in collective wilful disobedience. It then ordered a high-level meeting to resolve the issue, which failed to yield results.
The court has now set February 2, 2026 as the next date for a compliance hearing. It issued a clear ultimatum: failure to comply will be construed as wilful disobedience, and the concerned official will be required to be present in court to face potential consequences.
This case highlights the ongoing challenges in urban rehabilitation projects in Delhi, where eligible residents often face bureaucratic hurdles long after court orders are issued in their favour.
