Delhi CM denies slum demolition threat

New Delhi

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday denied any plans to demolish slums without offering permanent housing first. She criticized the previous Aam Aadmi Party and Congress governments for neglecting slum residents and treating them as mere vote banks while failing to provide basic facilities.

Speaking at the inauguration of a toilet block in Haiderpur, Gupta assured that no demolition will happen without proper rehabilitation. She warned of strict action against those spreading false rumors about demolitions.

Gupta explained that most anti-encroachment drives follow court orders targeting illegal structures blocking roads or public spaces. She mentioned the Delhi High Court’s orders to clear slums near Jangpura, especially those near the Barapullah drain, to prevent flooding like in 2023.

She highlighted that her government is investing Rs 700 crore in improving slum areas, unlike past administrations that neglected these communities. The Chief Minister emphasized that every slum dweller deserves dignity and access to facilities like clean water, toilets, roads, and parks.

Alongside inaugurating a 24-seater public toilet at Nehru Camp, Gupta visited development sites in Haiderpur, Pitampura, and Shalimar Bagh, reviewing road and pipeline projects. She also announced plans to build safe, clean parks with swings for slum children.

Rekha Gupta reaffirmed her administration’s dedication to raising living standards for Delhi’s slum residents and ensuring no one is left behind in the city’s growth and development.