Face-Saving Action Won’t Work: Supreme Court’s Stern Warning Over Illegal Buildings

The Supreme Court has strongly criticised civic authorities for failing to stop rampant unauthorised construction in Delhi-NCR and other cities, observing that enforcement efforts appeared to be merely “face-saving exercises.

A bench of Justices Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Sheel Nagu said builders were being arrested while officials responsible for monitoring the affected areas were escaping accountability. The court warned that officers could be held personally responsible and face stringent orders. (Hindustan Times)

The bench referred to recent tragedies, including the Saket building collapse, Malviya Nagar fire and Lucknow fire, and said authorities had failed to act despite earlier judicial directions.

The court also pulled up the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, noting that notices had been issued against violations but effective follow-up action was missing. It observed that construction had allegedly continued in collusion with civic officials despite court restrictions. (Hindustan Times)

An inspection team comprising two senior professors from IIT Delhi and two draftsmen has been ordered to examine conditions in Malviya Nagar, Saket and Lajpat Nagar. A similar inspection will cover Aliganj in Lucknow.

The Supreme Court also directed the Tamil Nadu government to submit details of action taken against illegal constructions in the state. (Hindustan Times)

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