Demolition of Homes in Mehrauli Without Rehabilitation Sparks Public Outrage
Allegations of Arbitrary Action by Local Authorities and DDA; Women Lead the Protest
Reyasat Ali Sameer, Senior Correspondent
New Delhi: The ongoing demolition drive by administrative agencies in South Delhi’s Mehrauli and surrounding areas has triggered deep resentment among local residents. The action, being carried out without any prior rehabilitation plan, has especially distressed women and the elderly in the locality. Residents question how the government can simultaneously promote schemes like “Jahan Jhuggi, Wahan Makaan” and yet demolish long-established homes, declaring them “illegal” overnight.
Under the leadership of local social worker and public representative Pandit Vivek Joshi, women from affected colonies are now coming forward in protest. In a public appeal issued on Tuesday, serious allegations were raised against the working style of authorities such as the DDA, ASI, SDM, and MCD. The appeal states that demolitions are being conducted without transparent surveys, proper demarcation, or clear notice, which constitutes a violation of both constitutional and human rights.
“No Eviction Without Rehabilitation” – United Voice of the Women
Several women in Mehrauli have alleged that they received no prior notice regarding the demolitions. When they questioned the action, officials reportedly brushed them off by stating, “We are following orders from above.” According to Pandit Joshi, instead of clarifying the jurisdiction and responsibilities of various departments, the administration is creating confusion among the residents.
Citizens are demanding that if a house is declared illegal, there must first be a transparent process to determine its status—one in which affected residents are involved. There are also allegations that demolition is being carried out without verifying the documents of those who have lived in the area for 20–30 years.
11-Point Demand Charter and June 22 Deadline
The public appeal includes an 11-point demand charter, the key points of which are:
No homes or shops should be demolished without a clear and concrete rehabilitation plan.
Boundaries and responsibilities of the DDA and ASI must be publicly clarified.
Valid identity documents such as EPIC, Aadhaar, and ration cards must be officially recognized.
A sensitive and humane approach must be adopted, especially concerning the safety of women and children.
The residents have also issued a warning that if no solid resolution is provided by June 22, 2025, they will initiate a peaceful but effective public movement.
“Jahan Jhuggi, Wahan Makaan” Under Scrutiny
This entire episode calls into question the implementation of the much-publicized “Jahan Jhuggi, Wahan Makaan” scheme of the Delhi government, which promises alternate housing to all eligible slum dwellers. However, the ground reality in Mehrauli reflects a glaring gap between policy and practice.
Locals are also questioning how homes receiving official electricity, water, voter ID, and Aadhaar services from authorities like BSES and other departments can now suddenly be labeled “illegal.” This inconsistency raises serious concerns about the intentions and policies of the administration.
A Larger Struggle for Dignity and Shelter
This issue has now gone beyond just Mehrauli—it represents the plight of millions of urban poor in Delhi who have painstakingly built small homes over decades, only to see them demolished under legal ambiguities and administrative indifference.
The people’s appeal is clear:
> “Before declaring us illegal, listen to our voices, ensure our rehabilitation, and uphold our dignity.”
