The demolition of Madras Camp in Delhi's Jangpura rendered 370 Tamil families homeless. Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin appealed to the Delhi government for immediate rehabilitation and provision of basic amenities.
Delhi News: On June 1st, 2025, a demolition drive using bulldozers took place at Madras Camp in Delhi's Jangpura area. This action displaced approximately 370 families of Tamil origin who had resided in the area for several decades. The operation was carried out pursuant to a Delhi High Court order aimed at removing illegal constructions along the Barapula drain.
MK Stalin's Sharp Response
Following the demolition, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin wrote a formal letter to Delhi's Chief Minister, expressing concern and characterizing the event as a "grave humanitarian crisis." He highlighted the plight of hundreds of families who had contributed to Delhi's economy and society for years, now suddenly rendered homeless.
189 Families Rehoused, 181 Remain Homeless
A joint survey conducted as per the High Court's order found that out of 370 families, 189 were eligible for rehabilitation. These families have been allotted EWS flats in Delhi's Narela area. However, the remaining 181 families have not been provided with alternative housing and remain homeless, without any clear arrangement for their resettlement.
Incomplete Amenities in Narela, Making Residence Difficult
Stalin's letter expressed concern over the lack of basic amenities such as water, electricity, drainage, internal roads, street lighting, and sanitation in the G-7 and G-8 pockets of Narela where these families have been relocated. He stated that these conditions make it extremely difficult for the families to reside in their new flats.
High Court Directives and Responsibility
The Delhi High Court had explicitly instructed the Delhi government and relevant agencies – such as the DDA and DUSIB – to provide all necessary services in these rehabilitated areas in a timely manner. Further directives included immediate school enrollment for displaced children in nearby government and MCD schools, provision of healthcare facilities, and establishment of reasonably priced shops. Additionally, orders were issued to ensure public transport connectivity, such as DTC and Metro, as per the 2016 policy.
Appeal for Immediate Relief from the Delhi Government
Stalin's letter urged the Delhi government to address the plight of these affected families on humanitarian grounds, providing suitable housing, basic amenities, and arrangements for the children's education as soon as possible. He also emphasized that the Tamil community has been a part of Delhi for years, contributing through various occupations such as laborers, domestic helpers, sanitation workers, cooks, and others.
Reason for the Demolition
According to officials, the demolition drive was undertaken to address flood-like situations caused by encroachments along the Barapula drain. It was explained that during heavy rainfall, the narrow drain's water flow is obstructed, leading to waterlogging in surrounding areas. This was the reason behind the court's order for the demolition.
Questions on Human Rights and Rehabilitation Policy
However, this action has once again raised questions about whether ensuring alternative arrangements before demolition is not the government's responsibility. Experts argue that such actions should be undertaken only after adhering to rehabilitation policies and court orders, ensuring not only compliance with administrative directives but also the protection of citizens' rights.
