Tue Dec 30 19:51:20 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
Summary:
The Delhi High Court has ordered the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and the Land and Development Office (L&DO) to immediately fence land near the Nau Gaza Peer Dargah and Kabristan (graveyard) on the Yamuna floodplains due to concerns of encroachment and unauthorized construction. The court observed disturbing construction activity and uprooted trees in photographs. While the caretaker claimed the land was allotted as a graveyard, the court emphasized that no construction or habitation is permitted on the floodplains. The court has ordered a land status clarification and prohibits anyone, including the caretaker, from residing on the land, allowing temporary burials within the fenced area only.
News Article:
Delhi High Court Orders Fencing of Land Near Shrine Amid Encroachment Concerns
New Delhi, December 31, 2025 – The Delhi High Court has intervened in a land dispute involving the Nau Gaza Peer Dargah and Kabristan (graveyard) located on the Yamuna floodplains. In a ruling issued on December 22nd, and made public today, the court directed the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and the Land and Development Office (L&DO) to immediately fence the area, citing “disturbing” evidence of large-scale encroachment and unauthorized construction.
The court’s decision follows the examination of photographs submitted by the Dargah and Kabristan’s caretaker, revealing what the court described as a “disturbing situation,” including uprooted trees and visible construction activity. While the caretaker asserted the land was designated for use as a graveyard and was controlled by the Wakf Board, the court emphasized that any construction or residential use on the Yamuna floodplains is strictly prohibited. A complainant further alleged that the graveyard was a recent development, with over 100 families now residing on the site.
Government officials have found that the land ownership rests with the government, a finding disputed by the caretaker’s counsel. The court has deemed the matter “serious” and ordered a joint inspection of records by the DDA and L&DO to clarify the land’s status.
As an interim measure, the court has directed the fencing to be completed within one week to prevent further encroachment. No fresh construction is allowed. Furthermore, all occupants, including the caretaker, have been ordered to remove their belongings by January 10, 2026. Burials will be permitted within the fenced area, but no one will be allowed to reside on the land after a burial.
The court has scheduled a further hearing for February 27, 2026, and has instructed senior officials from the DDA and L&DO to be present to assist the court. This ruling seeks to balance religious practices with environmental protection and the prevention of illegal land occupation.
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