Delhi High Court Halts Demolitions in Bhalswa Dairy Colony Until August 16
New Delhi, August 13: The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has assured the Delhi High Court that it will stop demolitions of illegal structures in Bhalswa Dairy colony until August 16. This decision came after concerns were raised by a lawyer representing the colony’s residents.
The court had earlier directed the MCD and other authorities to remove unauthorized constructions in all dairy colonies across Delhi. The bench of Justice Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela noted the MCD’s statement and decided to address the matter on August 16. On this date, the court will also consider a petition about the condition of dairies in Delhi.
Previously, the Delhi High Court had instructed all statutory authorities, including MCD, DUSIB, GNCTD, and MoHUA, to take immediate steps to shift all dairies from Bhalaswa to Ghogha Dairy colony within four weeks. The court noted that dairy plot allottees had illegally converted these plots for commercial and residential use without legal sanction.
The court emphasized that these plots were meant exclusively for cattle sheds and not for dwelling units. The Delhi High Court also highlighted the failure of authorities to prevent milch cattle from feeding on garbage near Bhalaswa and Ghazipur landfills. The court found merit in the submission that 83 acres of unutilized land in Ghogha Dairy colony could be used for shifting Bhalaswa Dairy Colony.
Additionally, the court had issued directions to maintain hygiene in dairy colonies, ensure medical care for cattle, and prevent the use of spurious oxytocin. The Chief Secretary of Delhi was directed to file a detailed plan for the future of the nine dairy colonies.
The court was hearing a Public Interest Litigation filed by Sunayana Sibal, Dr. Asher Jessudoss, and Akshita Kukreja, represented by senior advocate Vivek Sibal. The petitioners highlighted severe animal cruelty, poor waste disposal practices, and public health risks in the dairy colonies.
Doubts Revealed
Delhi High Court -: The Delhi High Court is a big building where judges work. They make important decisions about laws and rules in Delhi.
Demolitions -: Demolitions mean breaking down buildings or structures. It is usually done when the buildings are not safe or are built illegally.
Bhalswa Dairy Colony -: Bhalswa Dairy Colony is a place in Delhi where many people keep cows and buffaloes for milk. It is like a big farm area inside the city.
Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) -: The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is a group of people who take care of the city’s cleanliness, roads, and buildings. They make sure the city runs smoothly.
Petition -: A petition is a request made to the court by people who want something to be changed or fixed. It is like asking for help from the judges.
Animal cruelty -: Animal cruelty means being very mean or harmful to animals. It includes not giving them enough food, water, or proper care.
Public health risks -: Public health risks are things that can make many people sick. For example, dirty water or air can cause diseases.
Ghogha Dairy colony -: Ghogha Dairy colony is another place in Delhi where people can keep their cows and buffaloes. It is supposed to be a better and safer place for the animals.