NGT strict after receiving report of violation of rules in construction of Kejriwal’s bungalow, fine imposed on government and PWD
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s troubles are showing no signs of diminishing. Now the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has imposed a fine of Rs 10,000 each on the Delhi government and the PWD department for violation of rules in the construction of CM House. NGT has taken this action due to AAP government not filing its reply on time.
Forest department also fined
NGT has imposed a fine of Rs 15,000 on the Forest Department of Delhi Government for not submitting a proper report by the committee constituted earlier to find out the situation regarding violation of greenery rules in the Chief Minister’s residence renovation.
The NGT bench hearing the case said on Monday that no report of the joint committee is on record even today nor has the Chief Secretary appeared through digital medium.
Accused of cutting more than a dozen trees
NGT has given this decision during the hearing on a petition. The petition alleges that more than 20 trees have been cut for permanent and non-permanent construction work for the development of the Chief Minister’s residence and its surrounding property. NGT has given two weeks time to Delhi government and PWD department to submit its report.
Committee formed to know the situation
At the same time, in May last year, the tribunal had constituted a joint committee to know the factual situation. The committee comprised the Chief Secretary of Delhi and Principal Secretary (Environment and Forests), a nominee of the Delhi Urban Arts Commission (DUAC) and the District Magistrate of North Delhi.
A bench of NGT Chairperson Justice Prakash Srivastava said that despite repeated directions given in July and October 2023, the committee failed to submit its report and the tribunal had given it four weeks time in November last year. Following his failure to submit the report even during the extended period, the NGT had directed the Chief Secretary to appear before him.
