NEW DELHI: Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has announced the finalization of the Delhi Slum and JJ Cluster Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy, 2026, by the Centre and the Delhi government. Gupta stated that the first phase will involve rehabilitation projects for five JJ clusters, providing essential civic amenities such as schools, health centers, playgrounds, and anganwadi centers.
In a late Tuesday night post on X, Gupta mentioned that the policy was concluded in a high-level meeting led by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
She also indicated that the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) will commence the tendering process for these five clusters within the next 45 days.
The identified clusters for the first phase are located in Mayur Vihar (East Delhi), Seelampur (North East Delhi), Sultanpuri (North West Delhi), Lajpat Nagar (South East Delhi), and Pitampura (North Delhi).
Gupta further noted that the Delhi government plans to issue tenders for at least five public-private partnership (PPP)-based rehabilitation projects each month. This initiative aims to provide dignified housing for slum residents, fulfilling the vision of offering permanent housing options for individuals living in jhuggi clusters.
Participating in the meeting were Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal, Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu, Delhi Home Minister Ashish Sood, and various senior officials.
This announcement comes amidst ongoing legal actions regarding the proposed demolition of slum clusters near the Race Course area. The Centre has requested the eviction of residents, asserting that these settlements are situated in a protected zone next to an operational air force station.
They argued that eliminating unauthorized structures is essential for enhancing defense infrastructure and safeguarding public security.
The Centre also suggested that in-situ rehabilitation is not viable due to the lack of nearby alternative housing, proposing to relocate 717 residents from three clusters to Savda Ghevra.
Earlier this month, the Delhi High Court directed that authorities should not take coercive measures against residents who have not yet vacated their homes. On Monday, the court ruled that the homes of Race Course slum cluster residents who have declined alternative housing and remained cannot be demolished until July 1.
