Chandni Chowk Encroachment: High Court to Form Committee for Daily Monitoring

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court has taken a strict stand against encroachments and traffic violations in the Chandni Chowk area. The court has decided to form a committee that will monitor the situation on a daily basis.

The move came after the Chandni Chowk All Traders’ Association petitioned the court, urging immediate action against traffic violations and illegal activities in the area.

Traders’ Association Demands:
The association highlighted that despite the area being designated as a non-motorized zone, a large number of vehicles continue to operate there. They also raised concerns over fines being settled in Lok Adalats, which undermines enforcement. Currently, a fine of ₹20,000 is reduced to ₹200 in Lok Adalats, leading to widespread disregard for traffic rules.

Court’s Decision and Committee Function:
Delhi Government’s Standing Counsel, Sameer Vashistha, opposed the petition, arguing that Lok Adalats serve a legitimate purpose and that shopkeepers’ responsibilities must also be examined. After hearing all parties, a division bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyay and Justice Tejas Karia directed that all civic agencies submit reports to the proposed committee. The committee will oversee daily monitoring of the area.

Planning and Oversight:
The court emphasized that any plan by a civic agency must first be approved by the committee before implementation to ensure effective monitoring. The court noted the importance of large-scale planning and daily action, adding that market associations will also be involved in the process. Senior Advocate Sanjeev Ralli, representing the petitioners, briefed the court about the ongoing issues in the area.