NGT Calls for Response from Delhi Government Over Allegations of Illegal Encroachment on Afforestation Land
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New Delhi, Jan 5 (NationPress) The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has called upon the Delhi government to respond to a petition claiming that land allocated for afforestation aimed at reducing pollution has been misappropriated.
A bench led by Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava acknowledged the argument that 125 bighas of land, designated for the Forest Department to implement afforestation efforts to reduce pollution, improve green cover, and support environmental protection, is currently under illegal farming, with unauthorized residential and commercial developments erected on these parcels.
"Issue notice to the respondents (Delhi government and other involved authorities) to submit their response/reply via affidavit to the Tribunal at least one week before the upcoming hearing date through e-filing," the bench, which also includes judicial member Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi and technical member Dr. A Senthil Vel, ordered.
The petition, filed by Kishori Lal, pointed out that in 2005, the Lt Governor allocated the 125 bighas of land in Kharkhari Jatmal village of Delhi’s Najafgarh for afforestation purposes.
According to the petitioner, this land has fallen prey to encroachment by land mafias, where unauthorized constructions and illegal agricultural operations are ongoing.
The petitioner indicated that despite numerous complaints, the Forest Department has not acted to remove the encroachments or undertake necessary corrective measures. The petition further stated that the demarcation of this land remains unfinished, and there is illegal extraction and sale of groundwater in this region.
By issuing notice to the Delhi government and other relevant authorities, the green tribunal instructed the applicant to serve the authorities and submit an affidavit of service at least one week ahead of the next hearing.
The green tribunal made it clear that if any authority submits a reply directly without going through their advocate, that official will be expected to be virtually present at the next hearing. The case is scheduled for a follow-up on April 22.
