New Delhi – Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday firmly stated that no slum in the city would be demolished without first ensuring permanent housing for its residents. Addressing widespread rumours about forced evictions, she warned that strict action — including FIRs — would be taken against those spreading misinformation.
During her visit to several Jhuggi-Jhopri (JJ) clusters — including Nehru Camp in Haiderpur, Ekta Camp in Pitampura, and the U and V Blocks of Shalimar Bagh — CM Gupta inspected ongoing projects and inaugurated new initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and quality of life in these underserved communities.
Among the key initiatives was the launch of a 24-seater Jan Suvidha Kendra (public toilet complex) at JJ Cluster, Nehru Camp, Outer Ring Road. Gupta highlighted that the facility addresses longstanding sanitation challenges, particularly benefiting women, children, and the elderly.
“People living in slums have an equal right to a life of dignity,” the Chief Minister said. “Our government is committed to providing all basic services — clean water, paved roads, sanitation, and parks — to every resident.”
In Ekta Camp, Pitampura, she also inaugurated the construction of a cement concrete (CC) pavement at AU Block. The new road is expected to eliminate frequent waterlogging and dust issues while improving overall connectivity.
At another stop in Shalimar Bagh, Gupta inspected a proposed site for a 20-seater Jan Suvidha Kendra and instructed officials to fast-track the project to ensure timely sanitation access for local residents.
Addressing concerns about the recent demolition at Madrasi Camp, CM Gupta clarified that the action was taken in compliance with Delhi High Court directives to clear encroachments around the Barapullah drain — a vital part of the city’s flood control system. “The court had issued four orders to remove the settlement for drain maintenance,” she said. “Residents were not abandoned — they were provided alternative housing and relocated.”
She emphasised that the government’s broader slum redevelopment strategy will be carried out in a phased and planned manner. This includes comprehensive upgrades such as proper sewerage and drainage, reliable drinking water supply, improved roads, street lighting, and green spaces.
Additionally, the government aims to enhance public health through the construction of more community toilets and bathing facilities, supported by an efficient solid waste management system and regular garbage collection.
“Our goal is not just slum redevelopment — it’s about improving the overall quality of life for every slum resident in Delhi,” CM Gupta affirmed.
