In a powerful statement aimed at protecting urban poor communities, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has publicly assured that no jhuggis (slum dwellings) in the national capital will be demolished. She also announced that her government is working on policy amendments to provide dignified, permanent housing for all residents living in informal settlements.
Protection of Existing Settlements
Addressing a press conference at the Delhi Secretariat, CM Rekha Gupta firmly stated that her administration would not allow the forced removal of any slum dwellers. “We believe in inclusive governance. Every citizen deserves dignity, and no one will be displaced from their homes,” she declared.
Policy Reforms for Housing Justice
She further revealed that the Delhi government will amend existing urban housing policies to ensure legal protection for families residing in slum clusters. The upcoming reforms will focus on:
-
On-site rehabilitation
-
In-situ development models
-
Basic infrastructure upgrades
-
Legal tenancy rights for slum residents
Commitment to ‘Housing for All’
Echoing the central vision of ‘Housing for All’, CM Gupta highlighted that Delhi must be a city where economic class does not determine the right to shelter. She emphasized that access to safe, hygienic housing is a basic right, not a privilege.
Response to Rising Demolition Concerns
The announcement comes amid recent reports of slum clearance drives in parts of Delhi’s outer districts. Public outcry and petitions by civil society organizations have demanded a halt to evictions without rehabilitation, prompting the government to clarify its stance.
Reactions from Resident Welfare Groups
Leaders of local resident welfare associations (RWAs) and housing rights activists welcomed the CM’s statement. Many have requested that the government initiate community consultations before finalizing new housing schemes, to avoid bureaucratic delays and ensure people-centric planning.
Plans for In-Situ Redevelopment
The Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) is expected to roll out a new redevelopment plan, involving:
-
Construction of multi-storey flats within existing slum areas
-
Improved access to sanitation, drinking water, and waste management
-
Ownership documentation for families who’ve lived in these areas for over five years
Legal and Civic Partnerships
The government has also initiated coordination with legal aid teams, NGOs, and urban policy think tanks to ensure that housing reforms are legally sound, transparent, and socially inclusive.
CM Rekha Gupta’s Vision
CM Gupta reiterated that her government stands with the marginalized:
“We will not let bulldozers take away dreams. Every citizen of Delhi, regardless of where they live, will be protected and uplifted.”
Next Steps
The new urban housing guidelines are likely to be tabled in the Delhi Assembly next month. Meanwhile, all planned eviction drives have reportedly been put on hold until rehabilitation frameworks are finalized.
Conclusion
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta’s declaration signals a strong move toward housing justice, urban dignity, and inclusive development. The government’s forthcoming policies could redefine how India’s capital addresses slum development — not through eviction, but through empathy, planning, and rights-based governance.
