Authorities in Delhi have commenced a demolition drive at the Madrasi Camp in Jangpura, following a directive from the Delhi High Court aimed at clearing encroachments along the Barapullah drain.
The operation, which began on June 1, 2025, has led to the displacement of numerous families who have resided in the area for decades. The court’s order emphasized the necessity of removing illegal settlements to facilitate the restoration and cleaning of the Barapullah drain, a critical waterway in the city. Officials have stated that the demolition is part of broader efforts to manage urban planning and maintain civic order in Delhi. However, the move has sparked significant unrest among the residents of Madrasi Camp. Many have expressed deep concern over inadequate rehabilitation measures, with protests erupting in response to the demolition activities. Of the 370 shanties located at the site, 215 families have been identified as eligible for relocation under the Prime Minister’s ‘Jahan Jhuggi Waha Makaan’ rehabilitation scheme and have been offered flats in Narela. Initially, only 189 families were included in the relocation plan, but a revised list added 26 more families.
Despite these provisions, a significant number of families remain without alternative housing solutions. Residents have voiced their grievances, highlighting the emotional and logistical challenges posed by the sudden displacement. The situation has been further complicated by the fact that some of the offered flats in Narela are located far from the residents’ current place of work and community ties, raising concerns about the feasibility of relocation. The demolition drive has also become a focal point of political contention. Various civic agencies and political parties have been embroiled in disagreements over the demolition process and responsibility. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Delhi administration for the manner in which the evictions have been carried out, accusing them of insensitivity towards the affected families. In response, BJP leaders have defended the actions as necessary for urban development and compliance with legal directives.
The Delhi High Court’s directive, issued on May 9, 2025, mandated the removal of illegal encroachments to facilitate the cleaning and restoration of the oversaturated Barapullah drain. The court had instructed multiple civic agencies, including the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), and the Public Works Department (PWD), to take action to prevent future flooding in the area. As the demolition continues, the affected residents of Madrasi Camp face an uncertain future. While some have been offered relocation options, the adequacy and accessibility of these alternatives remain in question. The situation underscores the complex challenges of urban development, legal compliance, and the rights and welfare of vulnerable communities in rapidly evolving cityscapes.
The unfolding events at Madrasi Camp serve as a poignant reminder of the human impact of urban policy decisions and the importance of ensuring that development initiatives are carried out with due consideration for the affected populations.
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