JNMF eviction notice: HC refuses Centre's plea to prepone hearing

The Delhi High Court Friday refused to allow Centre's plea to prepone hearing of a petition filed by Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund (JNMF) which has sought setting aside of the estate officer's eviction notice.

Justice Yogesh Khanna said the matter is already fixed for hearing on February 19 and the could only list it for February 14 or 18, which would not make any difference.

The government, in its application has contended that the JNMF's petition is premature and only to stall proceedings against it. The petition should either be preponed or authorities should be allowed to proceed under law against the JNMF, it has said.

Central government standing counsel Monika Arora urged for an early hearing, saying the were trying to vacate JNMF from Teen Murti here as they need more space to expand the library.

Advocate Sunil Fernandes, appearing for JNMF, opposed the early hearing plea saying that on January 23, the February 19 date was given by the court master with the consent of the additional solicitor general and it should not be changed now.

The judge said, "Even if I give early hearing date, only February 14 or 18 is possible. What is the difference between February 19 and these days. Let it be February 19."