Kejriwal slams LG for Kathputli Colony demolition

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday slammed Lt Governor Anil Baijal for the demolition of Kathputli Colony here and said it was wrong to use DDA and police officials for "such a brutal activity".

"People's homes have been brutally demolished. Young girls are in the streets. One kid has died...I request LG that it is not correct to use police and DDA (Delhi Development Authority) officials to put across such a brutal activity," he said when he visited the colony along with Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot.

"Our government has also rehabilitated many slum dwellers who have happily left their homes and moved to properly built houses," said Kejriwal.

"This way, by ruining your people, what do you wish to establish here?" he questioned.

He said he would speak to the LG and request him to put a stop to "this cruelty towards the poor".

The Chief Minister said his government would make arrangements for food, water and tents in the area so that people don't face any further problems.

"The government was elected by the poor, not the rich. We are here to work for the poor," he said.

Kathputli Colony, spread over 14 acres, was home to puppeteers, magicians, singers and musicians. It has been demolished by the DDA to make way for redevelopment with the help of a private developer.

--IANS

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