Following strict orders from the Delhi High Court, the NDMC enforcement team launched a massive anti-encroachment drive in Sarojini Nagar Market late Saturday night and again on Sunday afternoon.
On Saturday night, bulldozers were used to demolish canopies and extended structures installed in front of shops to protect against rain and sunlight. The operation resumed on Sunday post-lunch, catching few by surprise. However, word had already spread among unauthorized vendors and body hawkers, who vacated the market area along with their goods before the enforcement team’s arrival.
The team, backed by heavy police presence and three trucks, reached Sarojini Nagar Police Post around 2:30 PM, and began the second round of action at 3 PM. By then, many illegal vendors had already fled, and NDMC officials had to settle for cutting plastic sheets and tarpaulins near Gate Nos. 3 and 4. The entire operation was videographed and photographed for official records.
Major Demolition in Main and Mini Markets
Despite repeated court orders, NDMC’s inaction in fully clearing encroachments from Sarojini Nagar Market had drawn flak from the Delhi High Court. During contempt proceedings on May 14, 2025, the bench of Justice Pratibha M. Singh and Justice Rajnish Kumar Gupta directed NDMC and local police to conduct daily enforcement drives if needed, until all encroachments are removed.
Late Saturday night, the enforcement team, supported by three bulldozers and a strong police force, stormed the Main Market and Mini Market, resulting in widespread demolition. Shopkeepers alleged that even legitimate shade structures and boards were torn down using bulldozers. Some accused police of misbehaving and physically assaulting them when questioned. Others claimed rooftops and balconies were damaged during the operation.
Mixed Reactions from Traders
While the crackdown was welcomed by some, it also sparked resentment. Ashok Randhawa, president of the Sarojini Nagar Mini Market Traders Association, said,
“We have no issue with licensed vendors operating legally. But the market has been overwhelmed by unauthorized street vendors and body hawkers. It is NDMC and local police’s duty to maintain order. If the problem continues, it clearly indicates a lack of seriousness on the part of the authorities.”
The High Court has made it clear: no leniency will be tolerated, and encroachments must be removed in full.
