Today(on 26th June), The Supreme Court of India strongly criticized the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and the Delhi government for illegal tree cutting in the ridge area, an extension of the Aravallis. The court ordered criminal action against responsible DDA officials, emphasizing serious environmental concerns and labeling the government’s oversight as a significant lapse.
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DELHI: Today(on 26th June), The Supreme Court of India expressed severe disapproval of both the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and the Delhi government regarding illegal tree cutting in the ridge area, an extension of the Aravallis. The court emphasized its determination to uncover the truth behind the matter and ordered criminal action against the DDA officials responsible for this environmental lapse. The court remarked that there had been “a fantastic lapse” on the part of the Delhi government, under whose jurisdiction the Tree Authority operates.
While allegations suggest that 1,100 trees were felled in the area, the DDA contends that the number is 630 and attributes the tree cutting to the road widening project. The court, drawing a reference to Sherlock Holmes, questioned why “the dog didn’t bark” when the timber from the felled trees was transported, hinting at potential internal collusion.
The Supreme Court’s scrutiny continued from the previous hearing, where it had questioned whether Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena had authorized the tree cutting.
The court stated that the DDA vice-chairman should present facts transparently, asserting that-
“No cover-up is permissible, regardless of actions taken by the highest authority.”
This judicial intervention occurs amidst a scorching heatwave gripping Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), exacerbating pollution problems that have persisted, particularly in winter months.
During the session, a special bench of Justices Abhay Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan resumed inquiries from Monday’s hearing, asking the DDA if it had found any record of the Lieutenant Governor’s visit to the area on February 3. Senior Advocate Maninder Singh, representing the DDA, mentioned that officials were still attempting to locate the documents.
ALSO READ: Supreme Court Slams DDA for Violating Court Order on ‘Unauthorized Tree Felling’ in Delhi Ridge Area
“This is sheer recklessness. You can’t locate a simple document, no action has been taken, and no officer meetings have been convened. I sincerely hope the Vice Chairman of the DDA is addressing this matter seriously. There are concerns about the handling of these affairs.”
-Justice Oka remarked.
When Mr. Singh stated that the LG had visited a hospital and not the site in question, Justice Oka retorted-
“When the LG visited, wasn’t it the DDA’s responsibility to manage the visit? It appears you are shielding senior officers and blaming lower-level officers. Is this not the case?”
As the proceedings advanced, Mr. Singh conceded that there had been some oversights, but the bench remained unyielding.
“There are no loopholes here. The DDA must take responsibility as the primary offender. This act is blatantly irresponsible, showing no regard for environmental protection.”
-Justice Oka asserted.
The Delhi High Court has issued stringent directives to the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and the Delhi Government, emphasizing the urgent need for action against the unauthorized felling of trees in the capital. The court’s recent statements highlight a significant lapse in the enforcement of environmental laws, pointing to a deeper systemic issue that demands immediate rectification.
During the proceedings, the bench criticized the Delhi Government for its inaction and apparent oversight regarding the cutting of trees, despite being fully aware of such activities.
The court’s observation was stark, stating-
“It’s evident that this is a significant lapse by the Delhi Government, which holds full authority over the Tree Authority.”
This comment underscores the perceived negligence on the part of the government in safeguarding Delhi’s green cover.
Further compounding the issue, the High Court pointed out that the Tree Authority, tasked with the protection and management of the city’s trees, was reportedly dysfunctional.
In its order, the court noted-
“We direct the Principal Secretary to initiate criminal proceedings. The Secretary should also confirm the full constitution and operational status of the Tree Authority under the 1994 Act. Additionally, notice is issued to the Tree Authority, part of the Forest Department, through its member-secretary. The Tree Officer is instructed to provide an explanation for the inaction concerning the actions of the DDA in this case.”
The bench issued a stern directive to the DDA, granting them a week to comply with its instructions, which include a comprehensive response to the allegations of inaction. This reflects the court’s determination to ensure that regulatory bodies fulfill their duties effectively.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, the court expressed its conviction that the timber from the felled trees had been illicitly sold, facilitated by collusion with DDA officers.
“We are absolutely certain that timber will be removed and sold in collaboration with DDA officials. We must investigate why there was no alert or action taken.”
-the court remarked, using a metaphor to question the lack of preventive measures from responsible entities.
Justice Bhuyan, one of the presiding judges, further emphasized the need for stringent measures, stating-
“We are also fully confident that this is merely the beginning. Many more trees may have been illegally felled, and this incident is just the beginning. Strong action must be taken to send a clear message.”
This comment not only reflects the court’s resolve to tackle environmental violations but also its intent to establish a precedent that deters future infractions.
ALSO READ: Unauthorized Felling of 1,000 Trees | SC Issues Contempt Notice to DDA Vice-Chairman
The court has scheduled the next hearing for July 11.
