SC takes strong exception to casual attitude of Haryana govt

New Delhi, July 24 (UNI) Taking strong exception to the casual attitude of the Haryana government, the Supreme Court today directed the state Chief Secretary to file affidavit within four weeks explaining the position regarding the mining and construction activities continuing in Aravalli Hill area of District Faridabad in violation of the orders of this court banning the mining and construction in the forest area.

A Bench comprising Chief Justice Y K Sabharwal and Mr Justice C K Thakker granted last opportunity to the state of Haryana to file its response to the petition filed by M C Mehta seeking ban on mining in the area as it was damaging the environment.

Senior counsel Arun Jaitley appearing for the residents of the area contended that the houses have been built by the people after obtaining all requisite clearance from the concerned authorities and now they are unable to shift to their houses as the state government is not granting them permission to shift.

Counsel for Haryana, however, submitted that only one house is there in the area.

UNI AKS/SC RP HS1925