Stop unauthorised construction in Christian Colony: HC

The Delhi High Court today directed city government, municipal corporation and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to ensure no unauthorised construction takes place around a protected ancient church in Christian Colony in north Delhi.
A bench of Chief Justice G Rohini and Justice R S Endlaw directed the authorities, including ASI, to ensure that the area is free of encroachments and unauthorised constructions, as ordered by it earlier and listed the matter for hearing on July 8.
Central government's standing counsel Vivek Goyal, appearing for ASI, assured the court that its order would be complied with.
The order was passed on an application of petitioner Utsav Kumar, a Delhi University student, who has alleged that despite the court's earlier direction prohibiting unauthorised construction in the area, fresh illegal construction was being carried out and no action has been taken by the authorities.

He said that the authorities have admitted there were around 205 unauthorised constructions in the area but they have not taken any action against such structures.
He has alleged that the protected monument was also being used for breeding and sale of puppies.
Kumar in his main petition, apart from the issue of encroachment and unauthorised construction, has also alleged harassment of students living in the area by the police and anti-social elements.
"The houses or properties are owned in benami (anonymous) names and the musclemen and boxers often target students, particularly those belonging to the Northeast and Scheduled Castes," the PIL has alleged.