Dharamshala April 18 – The buildings and houses in Majnu Ka Tilla (Manjutilla), now known as New Arunanagar colony, a major transit for Tibetans traveling within India and abroad and a flourishing commercial centre, may have to face bulldozers of Delhi government.
Sitting at any makeshift chai (tea) shop in the area, one finds that speculations are aplenty regarding a notice that was issued by Delhi high court to the Delhi Development Authority to remove encroachments from Yamuna riverbed.
According to sources, the Delhi government had allotted funds in its budget for the beautification project of Yamuna River a few years ago. The High court of Delhi had earlier ordered the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) (which is under Delhi government) to demolish all encroachments within 300 metres from the bank of the river by 30 April 2006 or cite reasons otherwise.
The residents including Indian slumdwellers within 300 metres’ range of the river have received notice from the court but the Tibetans have not yet received it, a Hindi newspaper earlier reported.
“Although a few colonies elsewhere falling on the riverbanks have received notices following the decision, it is difficult to say anything about Majnu Ka Tilla colony at this point,” said Mr. Lhakpa Tsering, Welfare Officer of Samyeling Tibetan colony, Majnu Ka Tilla. “We have not received any notices from the High Court.”
Residents here are hoping that they may not have to face the bulldozers. Ongoing prayer sessions at the Jangchup Temple in the colony are focused on a hopeful outcome.
Majnu ka Tilla has been home to Tibetans here since early 60’s. At present there are more than 370 families living here. It has a floating population of more than 5500.
However, a report today in Hindustan Times indicates toward a postponement of the 30 April deadline as the Police Commissioner of Delhi, KK Paul had earlier asked for some more time to arrange security by that date. Paul had written a letter to DDA vice chairman, Dinesh Rai last week asking him to postpone the drive to next month, reported Hindustan Times
Sources say that the Delhi Development Authority plans to build an express highway through Majnu ka Tilla.
The High Court’s order may be challenged in the Supreme Court but it is more likely than not that the demolition can be avoided, say legal experts.
With inputs from our correspondent Kelsang Gyatso
