Delhi High Court Criticizes City Government for Street Vendors Committee Delay
Synopsis
In a recent ruling, the Delhi High Court expressed serious concerns over the Delhi government's failure to establish a committee for street vendors, demanding swift action within three weeks. This delay, described as both **tardy and inefficient**, has drawn the court's ire, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the city's street vendors.
Key Takeaways
The Delhi High Court has ordered the government to form a committee for street vendors within **three weeks**.
The delay has been criticized as **tardy and inefficient** by the court.
Previous directives to form the committee have not been acted upon for nearly **two years**.
The next court hearing is scheduled for **May 12**.
Efficient grievance resolution is vital for supporting street vendors in Delhi.
New Delhi, April 15 (NationPress) The Delhi High Court has shown significant discontent regarding the prolonged delay by the Delhi government in setting up the Grievance Redressal and Dispute Resolution Committee for street vendors, labeling the delay as “slow and ineffective” and ordering that the process be finalized within three weeks.
In a ruling made last week, Justice Sachin Datta, presiding over a single-judge Bench, noted that the committee remains unconstituted despite the Delhi High Court's directive for its establishment nearly two years ago in a judgment dated April 25, 2024.
“It is regrettable that the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) has failed to form the Grievance Redressal and Dispute Resolution Committee for such an extended period, particularly given the orders from the judgment dated 25.04.2024,” the ruling stated.
The court further expressed its frustration at the slow and ineffective manner in which the GNCTD has approached this issue.
During the contempt petition hearing, Rajesh Chaudhary, Joint Secretary in the Urban Development Department, who participated virtually, informed Justice Datta that the proposal for the committee's formation, initially proposed on September 22, 2025, had faced delays after being returned from the Urban Development Minister’s office on March 23, 2026.
He added that a revised proposal, addressing previous concerns, had been resubmitted to the relevant authority on March 25, 2026.
In light of this information, the Delhi High Court instructed the city government to finalize the appointment process within three weeks. “
It is anticipated that the GNCTD will proceed with greater efficiency and complete the essential appointments promptly. This must be accomplished within three weeks from today,” the court order indicated.
The Delhi High Court cautioned that failure to comply would necessitate the Secretary of the Urban Development Department to participate virtually in the next hearing.
The next hearing is scheduled for May 12.
Previously, on February 2, the Delhi High Court had granted a six-week timeframe to the city government to establish the committee after it had assured that swift actions would be taken.
Point of View
The Delhi High Court's ruling underscores the urgent need for accountability and efficiency in governmental operations. The prolonged inaction on establishing the committee for street vendors not only reflects poorly on the administration but also highlights the importance of protecting marginalized communities in urban spaces. Timely grievance redressal is essential for fostering a fair and equitable environment.
NationPress
7 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Delhi High Court's ruling regarding the street vendors committee?
The Delhi High Court criticized the Delhi government for its delay in forming the Grievance Redressal and Dispute Resolution Committee for street vendors, ordering that it be constituted within three weeks.
Why is the formation of the street vendors committee important?
The committee is crucial for addressing grievances and disputes faced by street vendors, ensuring their rights are protected and providing them with a platform for resolution.
What actions did the Delhi High Court take regarding the delay?
The court expressed its discontent over the delay, labeling it as **tardy and inefficient**, and mandated the city government to complete the committee's formation within a specified timeframe.
When is the next hearing scheduled?
The next hearing is set for May 12.
What previous deadlines had been set by the court?
The court had previously granted the city government a **six-week** period to form the committee back on February 2.
