Delhi LG VK Saxena Addresses Tree Felling Incident in South Delhi Ridge
In New Delhi, the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, VK Saxena, who also serves as the Chairperson of the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), has submitted an affidavit to the Supreme Court. He stated that he was unaware of the need for the court’s permission before trees were felled in the South Delhi Ridge forest area. The illegal felling occurred between February 16 and 26, and Saxena was informed by the DDA Vice Chairman on June 10.
During a visit to a road widening project in February, Saxena was told that tree felling permission was pending. He urged for expedited communication of approval but was not aware that the Supreme Court’s permission was necessary. Saxena clarified that he did not intend to bypass the law and was informed of the court’s requirement only on March 21, 2024.
Saxena assured the court of a comprehensive review of existing structures and mechanisms to ensure accountability and monitoring. A departmental inquiry and a criminal complaint have been initiated against responsible DDA officials. The affidavit was filed following a Supreme Court directive in a contempt petition against DDA Vice Chairman Subhasish Panda for the felling of approximately 1100 trees.
Saxena noted that Panda was undergoing surgery during the tree felling and requested his discharge from contempt proceedings. The felled timber has been handed over to the Forest Department of the Delhi government after a joint inspection on July 3, 2024.
Doubts Revealed
Delhi LG -: Delhi LG stands for Delhi Lieutenant Governor. The Lieutenant Governor is a government official who acts as the representative of the President of India in the National Capital Territory of Delhi.
VK Saxena -: VK Saxena is the current Lieutenant Governor of Delhi. He is responsible for overseeing the administration of Delhi and ensuring that laws and policies are implemented properly.
Tree Felling -: Tree felling refers to the act of cutting down trees. In this context, it means that trees were cut down in the South Delhi Ridge area without proper permission.
South Delhi Ridge -: South Delhi Ridge is a forested area in Delhi. It is part of the Aravalli Range and is important for maintaining the ecological balance in the city.
Affidavit -: An affidavit is a written statement made under oath. It is used in court to present facts and information from a person involved in a legal case.
Supreme Court -: The Supreme Court is the highest judicial court in India. It has the authority to make decisions on important legal matters and disputes.
DDA -: DDA stands for Delhi Development Authority. It is an organization responsible for planning and development in Delhi, including housing, infrastructure, and land management.
Contempt Proceedings -: Contempt proceedings are legal actions taken against someone who disobeys or shows disrespect to a court’s order. In this case, it involves the unauthorized tree felling without court permission.
