BJP Leader writes to LG, CM over encroachment issue in Chandni Chowk

The Delhi unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday sought a probe into alleged attempts to encroach upon government land in the Chandni Chowk area of the national capital.

In a letter addressed to Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Lieutenant Governor V. K. Saxena, Delhi BJP media department head Praveen Shankar Kapoor alleged that a procession was taken out on Wednesday along the main Chandni Chowk road by members of a minority community . During the march, slogans such as “Jo Zameen Sarkari Hai, Wo Zameen Hamari Hai” were allegedly raised.

According to reports, the procession was organised by local street vendors asserting their rights under the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014 . The march was aimed at authorities responsible for land regulation and anti-encroachment drives, with participants seeking protection from eviction and recognition of designated vending zones. The rally reportedly passed through key stretches of Old Delhi under police presence.

Kapoor alleged that the rally was linked to attempts at land grabbing and demanded a formal inquiry into the alleged encroachment. He also cited repeated complaints from residents and traders about a rise in encroachments on roads in areas such as Deewan Hall Road, Esplanade Road, around Jama Masjid, Khari Baoli and Nai Sadak.

Urban Development Minister Ashish Sood said the government remains committed to inclusive development but would take strict action against any violation of constitutional norms.

In Delhi’s administrative framework, subjects such as land, police and public order fall under the jurisdiction of the Lieutenant Governor. Since encroachments on government land often involve agencies such as the Delhi Development Authority and municipal bodies, a formal complaint to the LG is procedurally relevant. Political observers note that such communication can also put official pressure on authorities, create a documented record of the complaint and signal a firm stance on alleged illegal encroachments.