Delhi High Court Criticizes Government Over Delayed Street Vendors' Committee
The Delhi High Court has voiced significant dissatisfaction with the state government's prolonged delay in establishing the Grievance Redressal and Dispute Resolution Committee for street vendors, labeling the inaction as "tardy and inefficient." In a recent directive, the court highlighted that despite its order nearly two years ago, the committee remains unformed, and it has now imposed a strict three-week deadline for the government to make the panel operational.
Court's Stern Warning and Timeline
During the proceedings, a senior officer from the urban development department disclosed that the initial proposal for the committee, launched on September 22 of last year, was returned from the urban development minister's office on March 23, 2026. The officer noted that a revised proposal, incorporating necessary adjustments, was resubmitted to the appropriate authority on March 25, 2026. In response, the high court emphasized its hope and expectation that the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) would act with enhanced efficiency and expedite the appointments. It mandated completion within three weeks from the hearing date.
The court issued a stern warning, stating that failure to comply would require the secretary of the urban development department to participate virtually in the next hearing. The matter has been scheduled for further review on May 12, 2026.
Previous Assurances and Ongoing Delays
Earlier this year, the court had granted the state government a six-week extension to constitute the committee after receiving assurances of prompt action. At that time, the government pledged its "best endeavour" to finalize the process and notify the committee's formation, ensuring adherence to statutory obligations. However, the continued delays have prompted the court's recent rebuke, underscoring the urgency of addressing street vendors' grievances through proper legal channels.
This development highlights ongoing challenges in urban governance and the need for timely implementation of judicial directives to protect the rights of street vendors in Delhi.
