Alarming re-encroachment on DDA land near the Yamuna floodplain prompts LG Saxena to take strict action, including FIRs against negligent officials and a demand for a swift inquiry report.
BY PC Bureau
New Delhi: In a stringent move to curb encroachment on Delhi Development Authority (DDA) land, Lieutenant Governor (LG) VK Saxena has directed that any future instances of fresh encroachment or re-encroachment will result in criminal charges, including the filing of First Information Reports (FIRs), against the responsible officials. This directive comes in addition to the standard practice of suspension and departmental inquiry.
The LG’s order follows the alarming discovery of re-encroachment on DDA land near Pusta Road, Mayur Vihar Phase-I, leading towards NH-24. Saxena has immediately suspended DDA field staff, including Assistant Engineers (AE) and Junior Engineers (JE), who were involved in the Mayur Nature Park project site.
“Any collusion between DDA officials and external parties that results in encroachment or re-encroachment will be met with the full force of the law,” stated a press release from the LG’s office. “An FIR will be lodged under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, including Sections 198, 223, 316, and 318, as well as Section 13 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, against the implicated staff.”
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A departmental inquiry has also been initiated to ensure accountability and facilitate disciplinary measures. The investigation will also explore potential criminal conspiracy involving DDA personnel and external parties.
LG Saxena has directed the Vice Chairman of the DDA to submit a comprehensive report on the inquiry and actions taken within seven days.
The affected stretch of land, from Mayur Vihar Phase-I to NH-24, is crucial for the restoration and rejuvenation of the River Yamuna floodplain, where the DDA is implementing the Mayur Nature Park project.
In June 2024, a major encroachment removal drive, conducted under the directives of the Delhi High Court and the National Green Tribunal (NGT), reclaimed approximately 390 hectares of land. This operation involved the removal of around 6,000 illegal structures, four illegal nurseries, the clearing of 250 hectares of illegal cultivation, and the dismantling of approximately 40 illegal borewells.
Despite these efforts, the LG’s office noted that DDA officials had permitted re-encroachments, raising serious concerns about potential collusion. “This negligence not only exposes the DDA to severe criticism from courts and tribunals but also results in significant financial losses to the public exchequer,” the statement said.
