Pavement Built On Acquired Land Encroached By Vendors; Supreme Court Asks DDA To Take Action

Taking a serious view of vendors encroaching upon a pavement which was built on a land which was compulsorily acquired from a citizen for public purpose, the Supreme Court called for necessary action by the Delhi Development Authority. 

A bench comprising Justices Abhay S Oka and Sanjay Karol made this observation while considering an appeal filed by the Delhi Development Authority in a matter relating to land acquisition forthe Kalindi Kunj Metro Depot.

While deciding the appeal, the bench noticed from photographs that the pavement near the metro depot has already been occupied by a "car clinic" and other vendors. Taking a serious view of the matter, the bench lamented that the land which was compulsorily acquired from a citizen is being encroached upon.

"A citizen has lost his valuable property by way of compulsory acquisition. The compulsory acquisition has been made for a public purpose and therefore, the appellant and all the concerned authorities cannot allow the pavement to be used for any purpose except for allowing people to walk", the bench observed.

"We hope and trust that either the appellant takes immediate action on this behalf or calls upon the authorities empowered to take action to do the needful immediately in accordance with the law", the Court added.

Also from the judgment - Land Acquisition | Once Proceedings Under 1894 Act Are Held To Be Valid, Claimant Can't Seek Compensation Under 2013 Act : Supreme Court