NEW DELHI, Delhi Congress President Shri Devender Yadav strongly criticized the BJP government for ignoring the plight of Delhi’s slum dwellers. He pointed out that despite allowing an adjournment motion on the JJ Cluster demolitions in Parliament today, no representative from the ruling government responded to the serious concerns raised by Leader of Opposition Shri Rahul Gandhi. “What’s the point of permitting a motion if the government refuses to answer?” he questioned.
Shri Yadav stated that the BJP’s refusal to discuss the mass eviction of slum residents—allowing only Shri Rahul Gandhi to speak—highlights their indifference toward the poor and arrogance in governance.
He alleged that the Rekha Gupta-led administration in Delhi has blatantly violated the Slum Rehabilitation Policy of 2015. As per the policy, slums existing prior to January 1, 2006, cannot be demolished without first offering alternate housing. Even newer settlements, identified until January 1, 2015, require proper notice and temporary shelter arrangements, yet these rules have been continuously ignored, he said.
Highlighting the lack of support from Delhi’s seven BJP MPs, Shri Yadav said their silence in Parliament reflects their disconnect with the realities faced by displaced families. He added that over 3,000 JJ clusters have been torn down in just five months, betraying the BJP’s earlier promise to build 3.5 lakh in-situ flats with proper civic facilities and ownership titles.
He further criticized the government for defying court directives, referring to the 2019 Ajay Maken vs Union of India case, where the Delhi High Court had ordered strict adherence to the 2015 DUSIB policy prohibiting eviction without rehabilitation. Despite a court stay, bulldozers razed JJ Clusters at Jailorwala Bagh Road, he claimed.
According to Shri Yadav, the BJP has ignored key legal protections such as the Delhi Shelter Improvement Board Act, 2010, and the NCT of Delhi Special Provisions II Act, 2011—proving their disregard for lawful processes.
He declared that under the leadership of Shri Rahul Gandhi, the Delhi Congress will not remain silent. A city-wide campaign will soon be launched to advocate for slum dwellers’ rights, including legal aid for 675 JJ clusters and a 15-day protest drive to ensure displaced families are provided safe, dignified housing. “These residents helped build Delhi—we won’t let them be abandoned,” he said.
About the Author
