A demolition drive in southeast Delhi has left many residents distressed, as they claim they were not given enough time to vacate their homes before the bulldozers arrived. The drive, carried out by the local authorities, was part of a broader effort to clear unauthorized constructions in the area.
Residents have voiced their frustration, stating that they received eviction notices only a short time before the demolition began, leaving them scrambling to find alternative accommodation and move their belongings. Many families, including those with elderly members and young children, expressed concerns over the sudden disruption to their lives and the difficulty of relocating on such short notice.
Local authorities, however, maintain that the demolition was necessary to remove illegal structures that had been constructed without proper authorization. They argue that the affected residents had been notified in advance and that the demolitions were carried out in accordance with legal procedures.
Despite these assurances, the situation has led to protests from the affected communities, who feel that they were not given adequate time or support to relocate. Some residents have accused the authorities of being insensitive to their plight, while others have called for a halt to the demolition drive until more humane arrangements can be made.
The demolition has also drawn criticism from activists and local leaders, who have called for a review of the process to ensure that vulnerable residents are not left homeless or forced to live in unsafe conditions. They are urging the government to provide sufficient notice and support to those affected by future demolitions, to ensure that their rights are respected.
As the demolition drive continues, the situation remains tense, with many residents still uncertain about their future and where they will go next. The issue has highlighted the ongoing challenges of balancing urban development with the rights and needs of local communities, particularly those living in informal settlements.