Illegal structures on Aravalli forestland in Faridabad’s Khori village have to go: Supreme Court

Tribune News Service
New Delhi, August 3

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The Supreme Court today made it clear that all illegal structures on the Aravali forestland in Faridabad’s Khori village would have to be demolished.

“Our order is very clear that all unauthorised structures on the forestland will have to go,” a Bench led by Justice AM Khanwilkar said.

200 constructions razed at Khori

Faridabad: The Faridabad Municipal Corporation razed another 200 constructions at Khori on Tuesday, the 21st day of the drive. Majority of the constructions removed on Tuesday are located in the vicinity of Delhi border, but fall in the forest area of Faridabad. TNS

The Bench, which had on July 23 given four weeks to the Faridabad Municipal Corporation to remove encroachments from the forestland, asked the MC Commissioner to submit a status report by August 23 and posted the matter for further hearing on August 25.

The Haryana Government counsel said the state needed to invite objections and the policy would be finalised within two-three weeks.

“Something should be done by the state. They cannot wash off their hands. Temporary arrangement should be made,” said one of the petitioners regarding rehabilitation of those being evicted.

The MC counsel said arrangements such as beds, toilets and food had already been made available.

A group of people have approached the top court claiming they have their own land which was being used for hosting marriage functions. “If it is on the forestland, they have to abide by our order,” the Bench said, adding, it would hear the matter on August 6, along with other pending pleas.