New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India has issued a stern directive to the Delhi Police Commissioner, mandating immediate and absolute protection of heritage structures and historical sites across the national capital. A Bench comprising Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Justice N Kotiswar Singh warned that any failure to prevent encroachment, theft, mutilation, or vandalism would lead to the immediate suspension of the local Station House Officer (SHO). Furthermore, the court held the Commissioner of Police and the concerned Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) personally liable for ensuring total compliance with these orders.
In a significant move toward accountability, the Bench also ordered the Chairperson of the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) to appear physically in court on May 11. The Chairperson is required to explain the council’s failure to supervise heritage structures leased to private bodies, such as the Delhi Golf Club. The court expressed shock at photographs showing the “totally neglected” state of monuments within the club’s premises, accusing the NDMC of “gross negligence and abdication” of its supervisory duties.
The court specifically questioned the Delhi government regarding the Kharbooze Ka Gumbad in Sheikh Sarai, a structure dating back to 1397. The Bench demanded an explanation as to how this historical monument was settled with a private institution, Panchsheel Public School, and why no steps were taken to ensure its preservation despite reports of rampant encroachment and damage. These directives follow a report by historian Dr. Swapna Liddle, which highlighted the deteriorating condition of several ancient sites despite existing prohibitory orders.
