Delhi High Court refuses to interfere with eviction of residents of slums near PM residence

The judgement noted that the land belongs to the central government and is currently occupied by the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force.

The court ordered steps to minimize prejudicial effects and ensure compliance with the DUSIB policy, including securing education, travel, water and sanitation facilities for residents at Savda Ghevra. It noted that 192 dwellers had accepted allotment letters and 136 had taken possession of allotted flats; petitioners yet to accept allotments were to obtain letters and take possession after verification.

The court stated that contemporary geopolitical events and national security concerns were specific reasons for eviction and should not lead to interference with executive policy decisions. It held that eviction and rehabilitation at an alternative site do not violate petitioners' right to shelter and livelihood when their interests are secured under the DUSIB policy and rehabilitation protocol.

The Delhi High Court, through Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav, refused to interfere with the eviction. It directed the petitioners to vacate within 15 days, noting that eviction notices were first served in October 2025 and that sufficient time had elapsed. The court approved shifting 717 dwellers to Savda Ghevra due to security considerations and the lack of nearby alternative accommodation.

The Land and Development Office served eviction notices in October 2025 to residents of Bhai Ram Camp, DID Camp and Masjid Camp—jhuggi-jhopdi clusters located near Lok Kalyan Marg, where the prime minister’s official residence is situated.