On Wednesday, the Delhi High Court reprimanded MCD officials for their inability to address illegal and unauthorized construction in the Chandni Mahal area, emphasizing the need for prompt action.

A bench headed by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan cautioned the officials present in the court and questioned how the construction activity was allowed to continue despite notice of an earlier order for the removal of illegal construction as well as the stoppage of work. The bench also included Justice Manmeet PS Arora.

The bench expressed discontent, suggesting that officials might be questioning the worth of their government job. It advised them to reconsider their roles, stating that they should be vigilant, especially when a petition is pending in court, as their jobs could be at risk. The remark hinted at the unpredictability of situations, symbolized by the unexpected arrival of cement.

The court's observations came on a plea by an NGO, which claimed that despite stop work notices and show cause notices, illegal and unauthorized construction is continuing unabated at the site in violation of the previous judicial order. The MCD counsel said the construction activity was being carried out behind a facade and officials cannot enter the property without permission, but a show cause notice was issued to the builder.

The court was told that demolition orders have been issued for February 5. The court asked the authorities to explain how the ongoing illegal construction was visible to the petitioners but not to them, and said satellite images are available for all to see.

The court expressed skepticism, stating that it is confident the MCD might overlook the issue. It questioned why the petitioner was aware while the responsible officer was not, especially when the police claimed to have informed them 15 days prior. The MCD counsel assured the court that the demolition would be executed, prompting the court to instruct the police to offer assistance in the matter.