A recent late-night anti-encroachment operation by the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) at Sarojini Nagar market has sparked major controversy. The drive, carried out between 11:30 PM and 1:00 AM on Saturday night, May 17, 2025, led to the removal of around 150 to 200 structures deemed unauthorized, such as extended roofs, awnings, and signage.
Shopkeepers voiced strong criticism, claiming the demolition was sudden and carried out without prior notice. They alleged that even lawful extensions were torn down and that officials did not produce any formal documentation during the process. Some believe the move was retaliatory, targeting those who had approached the Delhi High Court seeking action against illegal street vendors.
In its defence, the NDMC asserted that multiple warnings had been issued in the preceding two weeks but were ignored. Officials stated the encroachments were blocking pedestrian access and promoting illegal vending. The council further clarified that this operation was part of a larger campaign targeting unauthorised structures across several Delhi markets.
This episode highlights the persistent conflict between licensed shop owners and street vendors over space and legality in one of the capital's most crowded commercial hubs.
A historic market, renewed friction
Sarojini Nagar, a prominent shopping hub in Delhi since 1951, falls under the jurisdiction of the Land and Development Office (L&DO). Famous for its budget-friendly fashion and accessories, the market is divided into several sections: the main market with 200 shops, Babu Market with 120 outlets, Sarojini Nagar Mini Market comprising 32 shops, and the Thareja street vendors’ zone housing 104 stalls.
Despite its popularity, the market has long faced issues related to illegal expansions and safety breaches. Authorities, including the Delhi Police, have frequently raised alarms over encroachments and fire risks, particularly from unauthorised rooftop storage structures.
However, traders contend that bureaucratic delays have stalled the process of legalising these extensions and argue that they are being unfairly held responsible for broader infrastructural failings.
Shopkeepers voiced strong criticism, claiming the demolition was sudden and carried out without prior notice. They alleged that even lawful extensions were torn down and that officials did not produce any formal documentation during the process. Some believe the move was retaliatory, targeting those who had approached the Delhi High Court seeking action against illegal street vendors.
In its defence, the NDMC asserted that multiple warnings had been issued in the preceding two weeks but were ignored. Officials stated the encroachments were blocking pedestrian access and promoting illegal vending. The council further clarified that this operation was part of a larger campaign targeting unauthorised structures across several Delhi markets.
This episode highlights the persistent conflict between licensed shop owners and street vendors over space and legality in one of the capital's most crowded commercial hubs.
A historic market, renewed friction
Sarojini Nagar, a prominent shopping hub in Delhi since 1951, falls under the jurisdiction of the Land and Development Office (L&DO). Famous for its budget-friendly fashion and accessories, the market is divided into several sections: the main market with 200 shops, Babu Market with 120 outlets, Sarojini Nagar Mini Market comprising 32 shops, and the Thareja street vendors’ zone housing 104 stalls.
Despite its popularity, the market has long faced issues related to illegal expansions and safety breaches. Authorities, including the Delhi Police, have frequently raised alarms over encroachments and fire risks, particularly from unauthorised rooftop storage structures.
However, traders contend that bureaucratic delays have stalled the process of legalising these extensions and argue that they are being unfairly held responsible for broader infrastructural failings.
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