Delhi: No relief for traders, SC-panel directs sealing of 10,000-establishments
What's the story
There's no respite in sight for traders in Delhi. Officials of all three corporations have been asked to seal 10,000 commercial establishments. The order was passed by an SC-appointed committee yesterday. This comes amidst an ongoing tussle between the committee and urban development ministry, with the latter alleging the panel is continuing with the drive without having any knowledge of ground realities.
Reactions
Urban development ministry miffed at panel's sealing drive decisions
Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Puri said last week that the panel is clearly ignoring the fact that the SC has allowed the government 15 days to undertake the "process of amending the master-plan," for which discussions are underway. During this, sealing shouldn't be carried out in specific areas, he added. Puri also pointed out that the committee is not even issuing notices to property-owners.
CAIT
Off late, committee exceeding its limit: Traders' body
The order has also left the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) angry, who said they would take legal action if sealing continues. Considering the matter on the Master-Plan is sub judice, "the committee is exceeding its limits," said Praveen Khandelwal, General Secretary, CAIT. He added that they would approach SC if sealing is carried out as per the committee's decision.
Quote
SC has asked us to comply with orders timely: Committee
In response, the committee said the SC has clarified there's no stay in the matter. Confirming the order, KJ Rao, a committee member said that NDMC and other civic-bodies have been asked to comply with its orders in a timely fashion.
What led to what
All about the ongoing sealing drive in Delhi
In August, an SC-appointed committee directed Delhi municipal bodies to begin sealing commercial structures in unauthorized colonies. Establishments were under the scanner for various civic violations, including non-payment of use conversion charges. The sealing drive finally started in December. However, urban development ministry complained 40L people would lose their jobs. Traders have also alleged that businesses are being sealed despite having paid all levies.