Sat Nov 23 00:12:46 UTC 2024: ## Delhi High Court Slams Police Inaction Near Chandni Chowk Redevelopment
**New Delhi, November 24, 2023** – The Delhi High Court on Friday sharply criticized Delhi Police for its failure to address illegal activities, including gambling and drug use, near the Chandni Chowk redevelopment project. The court described the situation as “shocking” and ordered the Delhi Police, Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), and Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation (SRDC) to rectify the issues within four weeks.
The court’s reprimand came in response to a petition filed by the Chandni Chowk Sarv Vyapar Mandal, a traders’ body, highlighting a lack of coordination among authorities and the resulting detriment to the ₹140-crore redevelopment project. The petition detailed rampant gambling, drug use, and the presence of vagrants in the area, causing significant public inconvenience.
The bench summoned the area’s Deputy Commissioner of Police to appear in court on December 13 to explain the police’s inaction. The court expressed its concern over alleged police inaction, hinting at potential corruption.
The court’s action follows the closure in September of a suo moto petition concerning the project’s delays. While the court previously requested the Delhi government ensure the project’s continuation, the traders’ body claims the problems intensified after the suo moto petition was dismissed. The court’s strong stance underscores the urgent need to address the issues and ensure the successful completion of the redevelopment project.
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