Lawyer Raises Concerns Over MCDs Audit in Satya Niketan Case

New Delhi, September 25 (Daily Kiran) : The ongoing legal proceedings regarding illegal constructions in New Delhi's Satya Niketan have taken a significant turn. During a recent court hearing, lawyer Rishabh Singh was granted ten days to submit a response to a petition concerning these constructions. Singh raised serious questions about the Municipal Corporation of Delhi's (MCD) affidavit, particularly how certifications are being issued without prior notice.Singh stated, "We have been allotted time to respond regarding the Satya Niketan issue. The court has given us ten days to file our reply against the MCD and other respondents. To summarize my response, the issues of illegal encroachments and constructions have been highlighted." He further elaborated that the MCD claims to have audited all paying guest accommodations. However, he pointed out that a closer examination of the affidavit reveals that certain building owners were sent to experts from DTU and IIT for audits, yet no notices were issued."This is the crux of the matter. Who are these experts certifying these buildings? The MCD’s primary responsibility is to oversee such matters," Singh emphasized. Singh also noted that while the owners of these paying guest accommodations have paid conversion fees, the MCD has not ensured compliance with regulations regarding the structures. He included photographs of collapsed buildings but criticized the MCD for only providing one image from Mukherjee Nagar."I personally visited the area and witnessed how students are living in this overcrowded locality," he added. He expressed confusion over why other buildings have not been demolished, stating, "These are the key issues, and we will certainly file our response in this writ. We will also suggest potential outcomes and improvements that the MCD could implement. Our primary appeal is that officials involved in these audits must bear specific responsibilities." Singh mentioned that SG Tushar Mehta opposed the motion, but ultimately, the court dismissed the application.Mehta has been instructed to submit suggestions regarding the encroachment situation. "We will specifically respond to the MCD officials' affidavit," he confirmed. Additionally, Singh noted that Delhi University has filed its affidavit, claiming a certain number of hostel facilities are available. However, he highlighted that a large influx of students from across the country is putting their safety at risk. "It is essential to recognize that as a citizen of this nation, I have the fundamental right to a safe environment, a point acknowledged by the Supreme Court," he concluded.The outcome of this case remains to be seen.