New Delhi: Good news for residents of unauthorized colonies in Delhi as the central government plans to extend the demolition ban by three years, now until December 31, 2026. A bill proposing this amendment was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, aiming to secure unauthorized developments in the capital against punitive actions. The legislation, named the National Capital Territory of Delhi Laws (Special Provisions) Second (Amendment) Bill 2023, extends the security for unauthorized structures until 2026. Introduced by the Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs, Hardeep Singh Puri, the bill focuses on providing legal protection to certain unauthorized developments in Delhi where adequate measures have not been taken yet.
While presenting the bill in the Lok Sabha, Hardeep Puri stated that development control norms for these unauthorized colonies were notified on March 8, 2022. The Delhi Master Plan for the year 2041 is in its final stages, addressing various forms of unauthorized developments, including slums, clusters, and unauthorized colonies.
The proposed legislation is expected to benefit millions of people residing in Delhi, particularly those in the 1797 unauthorized colonies. The bill, once passed, will provide relief to residents in these areas, allowing them to continue living without the fear of demolitions.
Initially introduced in 2006 to curb unauthorized constructions, this bill has seen multiple extensions over the years. While initially brought for a one-year ban on demolition, the period has been consistently extended, showcasing the ongoing effort to provide relief to property owners. Welcoming the presented bill in Parliament, Delhi BJP President, Virender Sachdeva, expressed satisfaction with the substantial relief it offers to property owners. The proposed three-year extension in the bill is seen as a significant respite for Delhi’s property owners, ensuring stability in their living conditions.