The Delhi Court has directed the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and the Delhi Police to submit comprehensive status reports on illegal encroachments around the Tis Hazari Courts complex.

Stressing the importance of maintaining unobstructed access to judicial premises, the Court underscored the impact of unauthorized obstructions on the administration of justice.

The directive was issued in response to a petition filed by Devender Dhiryan, represented by Advocate Dheeraj Singh, seeking immediate removal of unauthorized encroachments and occupations on public roads and footpaths in the vicinity of Tis Hazari Courts, Kashmiri Gate, Central Delhi.

The petitioner highlighted that illegal loading and unloading activities by transport services, unlawful street vending, and unauthorized parking have led to severe obstructions, frequent traffic congestion, and environmental concerns.

According to the petition, these encroachments disrupt access to the courts, adversely affecting judges, advocates, litigants, and the general public. It was further contended that the lax enforcement of traffic regulations has exacerbated the situation, infringing upon the fundamental right to access justice. The plea urged the Court to direct authorities to ensure strict implementation of municipal and traffic laws.

Upon reviewing previously submitted status reports by the respective Station House Officers (SHOs), the Court found them to be "unsatisfactory and incomplete." It reiterated that "any hindrance to free and smooth access to judicial premises undermines the effective functioning of the justice delivery system."

In addition, the Court ordered the MCD and the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) to provide a detailed report identifying vendors operating in the area, specifying those holding valid "tehbazari" licenses, and outlining actions taken against unauthorized vendors. The Court also directed the authorities to address the issue of commercial and heavy vehicles operating in restricted zones and to elaborate on enforcement measures against such violations.

Granting a week's time for compliance, the Court instructed the MCD, DCP (Traffic), and SHOs of Kashmiri Gate and Sabzi Mandi Police Stations to submit detailed and conclusive reports before the next hearing scheduled for March 26, 2024. The matter remains under judicial scrutiny, with further compliance and remedial measures expected to be assessed in the upcoming proceedings