The Supreme Court has taken a firm stand after observing that several historic structures in Delhi are being handed over to private entities such as the Delhi Golf Club and Panchsheel Public School. The bench, comprising Justices Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Justice N. Kotiswar Singh, warned that local SHOs could face suspension if encroachments, vandalism or theft continue unchecked.
Key Developments
- On May 4, 2026, after reviewing a report by historian Dr. Swapna Liddle, the Court noted rampant pilferage and neglect despite existing prohibitory orders.
- The Court directed the Commissioner of Police to instruct all local SHOs to protect heritage sites from encroachment, theft, mutilation and vandalism.
- Failure to comply will result in suspension of the concerned SHO and personal liability for the DCP and the Commissioner.
- The NDMC Chairperson must appear before the Court to explain the lack of supervision over leased monuments.
- The Court also summoned the NCT Delhi administration to clarify the circumstances under which the 1397‑year‑old Kharbooze ka Gumbad was settled in Panchsheel Public School.
Important Facts
- The matter originated with orders to restore a Lodhi‑era Gumti, later expanded to cover all neglected monuments of importance.
- Historian