DDA Demolition Drive in Jailerwala Bagh Slum, Ashok Vihar Sparks Outrage Among Locals
New Delhi: The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) conducted a demolition drive in the Jailerwala Bagh slum area of Ashok Vihar, triggering strong reactions and unrest among local residents. The operation aimed to remove unauthorized structures, but locals claimed they were left homeless without prior notice or any alternative arrangements.
According to DDA officials, the demolition is part of a broader plan to eliminate illegal encroachments and pave the way for redevelopment in the area. A significant police and civil defense presence was deployed to maintain order and prevent any untoward incidents during the drive.
Residents of the demolished slums expressed their anguish, stating they had lived in the area for years and were not offered proper rehabilitation or resettlement options. One resident said,
“Where are we supposed to go with our children and families? We received no notice, no alternative shelter. This is outright injustice.”
DDA maintained that multiple warnings and eviction notices were issued, but encroachments persisted. The Jailerwala Bagh area has reportedly been earmarked for a housing redevelopment project under which new accommodations for the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) and Low-Income Group (LIG) categories are planned.
The demolition has reignited the long-standing conflict in Delhi between slum rehabilitation and urban redevelopment. While the government cites city beautification and planned development as key objectives, displaced residents argue that there’s a lack of compassion and adequate provisions for resettlement.
The drive comes shortly after the formation of a BJP-supported government in Delhi, prompting political backlash. Opposition parties like Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congress criticized the move, calling it anti-poor.
“Is this the model of good governance — evicting the poor right after forming the government?” asked a local opposition leader.
A slum resident added,
“Before elections, they make promises. After winning, the first thing they do is demolish poor people’s homes.”
Now all eyes are on the DDA and the Delhi government to see whether any concrete steps are taken to rehabilitate the displaced, or if this incident will join the list of many incomplete and controversial redevelopment efforts in the capital.
