Tue Feb 24 16:10:46 UTC 2026: # Haldwani Eviction: Supreme Court Seeks Balance Between Development and Rehabilitation

The Story:
On February 24, 2026, the Supreme Court of India intervened in the ongoing dispute concerning the eviction of approximately 50,000 people, comprising nearly 5,000 families, occupying over 30 hectares of public land near railway tracks in Haldwani, Uttarakhand. The land is required by the Railways for infrastructure development. The Court directed Uttarakhand officials and the State Legal Services Authority to conduct camps to encourage residents to apply for rehabilitation under the Pradhan Mantri Awaz Yojana (PMAY) scheme. The court acknowledged the “stalemate” and emphasized the need for a balance between development and the human element, suggesting alternative land acquisition for rehabilitation.

Key Points:

  • The Supreme Court directed Uttarakhand officials to conduct camps for PMAY applications from March 19 to March 31, 2026.
  • Approximately 50,000 people are facing eviction from public land near railway tracks in Haldwani.
  • The land is being reclaimed by the Railways for infrastructure development to address disruptions caused by the Ghaula River.
  • Chief Justice Surya Kant suggested acquiring alternative land under PMAY for rehabilitation, utilizing monetary compensation for home construction.
  • The State Legal Services Authority will conduct door-to-door campaigns to raise awareness about PMAY benefits.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Supreme Court is attempting to mediate a complex situation involving development needs and the rights of long-term occupants.
  • The PMAY scheme is being utilized as a potential solution for rehabilitating displaced families.
  • The case highlights the ongoing tension between infrastructure development and displacement in India.
  • The court acknowledges that while the occupants do not have a legal right to the land, they are entitled to some consideration due to their long-term occupation.
  • The State government’s role in regularizing land possession is being examined.

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