Tree Felling In Ridge Forest: SC Notices To Delhi Police After Petitioner Alleges Harassment

The Supreme Court on Wednesday addressed allegations of harassment made by a city resident who filed a contempt plea against the Delhi Development Authority over the “illegal” felling of trees in the ridge forest. The court has sought a response from the Delhi Police on the issue.

A bench comprising Justices Abhay S Oka and Augustine George Masih issued the notice after senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan, representing the petitioner, informed the court that Delhi police officers have been making inquiries about another petitioner, the New Delhi Nature Society. Sankaranarayanan claimed that the police had also approached their bank and requested detailed account information.

Bindu Kapurea, in her contempt plea, alleged that trees were cut despite a March 4 court order denying the DDA permission for the activity. She also claimed that the felling of trees was concealed from the court.

Taking note of Sankaranarayanan’s submissions, the bench issued a notice in the matter.

The Supreme Court has initiated suo motu contempt proceedings against the vice chairman of the DDA over the alleged cutting of 1,100 trees in the ridge forest for a road widening project.

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