The Delhi High Court has issued an interim directive to the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), instructing them to refrain from taking any coercive measures against a Pakistani Hindu Refugee currently residing in the Pakistani Hindu Refugees Camp located at Majnu Ka Tilla in the city.

Justice Mini Pushkarna issued the order after taking into account a statement from the Union Government, recorded in another petition in 2013. The statement expressed the government's commitment to providing support to the Hindu Community that migrated from Pakistan, indicating its intention to extend assistance to such individuals.

“Considering the statement made on behalf of the then Additional Solicitor General of India, as recorded in order dated 29th May, 2013 in W.P.(C) No. 3712/2013 that the Union of India shall make endeavor to extend all support to the Hindu Community which has entered India from Pakistan, it is directed that no coercive action shall be taken against the petitioner, till the next date of hearing,” the court said.

The court was addressing a plea filed by Ravi Ranjan Singh concerning the demolition drive, seeking the allocation of alternative land for the residents of the refugee camp. Singh's legal representative argued that a Public Notice, posted on March 4, instructed the residents to vacate the camp by March 6. Failure to comply would result in the DDA demolishing the camp.

It was argued that the Pakistani Hindu Refugees have resided in Majnu Ka Tilla for many years, with basic amenities provided by the authorities. However, the counsel representing the DDA referred to a recent order from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) issued on January 29. This order directed the removal of all encroachments on the Yamuna Flood Plain Zone adjacent to the south of Gurudwara Majnu Ka Tilla.

Additionally, it was argued that the DDA was obligated to adhere to judicial orders, including the imposition of costs. Given the reference to the Union Government's statement from 2013 by the counsel, the court issued notice on the plea and included the Union of India as a party to the case.

The matter will now be heard on March 19.

Counsel for Petitioner: Mr. R.K. Bali and Ms. Meghna Bali, Advs

Counsel for Respondent: Ms. Prabhsahay Kaur, SC with Mr. Bir Inder Singh Gurm, Ms. Pragati Singh, Advs. & Mr. Bijendra Kumar, for DDA

Title: RAVI RANJAN SINGH v. DELHI DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY