Thread by @barandbench

Delhi High Court refused to entertain a public interest litigation (PIL) concerning illegal construction in a village on the border of Delhi and Haryana.

Counsel for petitioner - In the area of the village, they are running cafes, banquet halls. The entire area is affected. The road is used for commute. A marriage procession causes traffic.

Chief Justice - Whether construction of these banquet halls are banned by law?

Counsel for petitioner - It is illegal. As per MCD guidelines there should be corresponding parking space as per capacity.

Chief Justice - Have you written to the authorities?

Counsel - I have raised the issue with MCD. I have followed it up with the office of hte commissioner, it has been transferred to the zone. They are not doing anything.

Chief Justice read the representation - Will you not give them reasonable time to act? July 23 you make the representation and August 2 you file the petition? Do not take PIL jurisdiction lightly. Are we supposed to be post office?

Court records - This PIL petition has been filed seeking directions for action against illegal unauthorised activities in form of banquet halls, cafeteria. It also sought disconnection of electricity, taking action against erring officials.

Court - The cause sought to be raised has been represented to MCD only on July 23. Petitioner has failed to approach the authority concerned. The petitioner appears to be in haste, that casts a shadow on his bona fide in instituting this PIL.

Court - Once a representation was made, the petitioner ought to have waited and give reasonable time to MCD to act on his representation. However, instead of giving reasonable time to authorities, the petitioner has filed within 10 days of making representations.

Court - We cannot appreciate such conduct. The petitioner has not approached the authority for electricity disconnection.
The PIL is dismissed as withdrawn with liberty to approach the authorities concerned. The grievances shall be attended, action should be taken.