The lawyer vehemently argued that the demolition notices were issued in complete violation of the directions issued earlier by the Supreme Court in relation to the demolition of structures.The counsel argued that buildings were “arbitrarily picked up” for demolition.The petitioner’s lawyer further submitted that the High Court cannot be approached as the parties are affected by an order of the Supreme Court. He added that what was filed was an application in that earlier matter, seeking a stay of the demolitions, as they had not heard before the Court passed the order.The petitions also claimed that they have valid title documents, proof of continuous possession of the said properties, since before 2014. “The demolition order by the civic authorities are completely illegal,” the lawyer added.The petitioners had moved the top court by filing the application under Article 32 of the Constitution, and contended that the DDA’s actions have led to the arbitrary demolition of homes and shops in Batla House, many of which were constructed decades ago and house low-income families. “No rehabilitation or resettlement framework has been provided, thereby violating Article 21 (Right to Life and Livelihood). The residents had no prior knowledge or opportunity to respond, as mandated under provisions of the Delhi Development Act and master plan norms,” the plea, filed in the top court, claimed.
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