Provide complete infrastructure before rehabilitation: SC

New Delhi, June 28 (UNI) The Supreme Court today directed the Delhi Government, MCD and DDA to comply with the directions issued by this court in its orders dated February 7 and May 5 directing that slum dwellers of Sanjay Colony in Bhatti Mines area in South Delhi should not be removed till complete infrastructure including basic necessities like water and electricity are made available at the rehabilitation site.

A vacation bench comprising Justices A R Lakshmanan and Altamas Kabir reiterated the court's earlier order while refusing to pass any fresh orders restraining the authorities from carrying out the proposed demolition of the juggi-jhopadi cluster.

The counsel for the applicant, Mr Colin Gonsalves told the court that JJ clusters are to be removed on June 29 despite the fact that even the basic amenities like water, electricity and public conveniences have not been provided till date despite the court's order. The counsel also told the court that out of 1,112 juggis, only 450 have been alloted accomodation so far and 3,000 more are to be displaced tomorrow.

The court, however, said that if the petitioner are removed without providing complete infrastructure, then the respondents will face contempt.

The court also made it clear that it will not pass any order without hearing the other side. The Court also issued notices to the Central Government, MCD, DDA and the Delhi Government for the date already fixed in the matter.

UNI AKS/SC SHB RP GC1508