DDA issues fresh eviction notices at Bhoomiheen camp

The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has issued fresh eviction notices at the Bhoomiheen jhuggi-jhopri (JJ) camp in Kalkaji Extension, directing encroachers to vacate the area within the next three days. The notice, pasted across the settlement, warns of imminent demolition action following court orders.

This is not the first time the camp, largely inhabited by migrant workers, has faced eviction. Demolition drives were carried out thrice in 2023 — in May, June and July — prompting widespread concern among residents and civil society groups.

According to DDA officials, 1,862 households from the camp were found eligible for relocation under the policy of the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB), which mandates proof of residence prior to January 1, 2015. These families have been allotted economically weaker section (EWS) accommodations.

“All residents of Bhoomiheen camp in Kalkaji Extension are being informed that, as per court directions, illegal JJ clusters will be demolished,” the latest eviction notice read.

The DDA emphasised that this step is essential for reclaiming public land, completing housing projects in the vicinity and preventing further encroachments.

The authority stated that of the 1,618 jhuggi structures originally recorded at the site, 935 have already been demolished in earlier drives. The remaining 683 structures had been spared due to legal stays, proximity to other jhuggis or the presence of seven religious structures.

On June 6, the land owning agency had clarified that the previous demolition in May followed the Delhi High Court’s dismissal of related writ petitions. The DDA cited legal backing for its action and reiterated that only those households with documentary proof such as inclusion in electoral rolls before 2015 were considered eligible.

“In this regard, three days — June 8, 9, and 10 —are being given. After this, the demolition drive will be carried out. The DDA will not be responsible thereafter,” the notice warned.