The National Green Tribunal (NGT) took Suo Motu cognizance of the matter relating to encroachment in the forest of about six hectares between Press Enclave and Saket Sports Complex in Saket, New Delhi.
The Petition is registered suo-moto on the basis of the news item dated 25.06.2024.
As per the news item, about 500 huts have been built in the forest area. There are also allegations of dumping and burning of garbage including plastic and rubber in the forest. This is causing severe inconvenience to the residents of the nearby area. Furthermore, the encroachers are now trying to build permanent houses here. If they are not removed soon, this entire forest will be destroyed. It is alleged that even after inspection of the area by the forest department, no action has been taken.
The news item raises substantial issue relating to compliance of provisions of Forest Conservation Act, 1980 and the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
“Power of the Tribunal to take up the matter in suo-motu exercise of power has been recognized by the Hon’ble Supreme Court in the matter of “Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai vs. Ankita Sinha & Ors.” reported in 2021 SCC Online SC 897.”
Hence, Principal Bench of Justice Prakash Shrivastava, Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi and Dr. A. Senthil Vel impleaded the following as respondents in the matter:
1. Principal Chief Conservator of Forest, Delhi .
2. Chief Wildlife Warden.
3. Ministry of Environment, through its Secretary.
4. District Magistrate, South Delhi.
The Bench issued notice to the Respondents and listed the matter on 24.10.2024.