Read Time: 05 minutes

A bench of Justice Pratibha M Singh of the Delhi High Court has sought status report from the Delhi Government on removal of encroachments and management of devotees in the Kalkaji temple complex.

The court was hearing a Review Application filed on behalf of Mahant Surender Nath, who claims to be representing the Thok Jogian.

The Court had passed an order in September, regarding the administration and maintenance of Kalkaji Temple as also for resolution of disputes pertaining to the bari rights between baridaars to ensure smooth functioning of the temple.

In that earlier order the Court had directed that all encroachments in the temple premises, complex and peripheral areas be removed.

The Court had further expressed concerns over the "dismal" maintenance of temple and had also asked the local commissioner, appointed on the last date, to ascertain the collections/donations made to the Temple and check whether CCTV cameras installed inside its premises are operational.

Mahant Surender Nath, sought review of the September order in respect of his submissions on the ownership of the Mandir land on the ground that it was incomplete and inaccurate.

He also contended that he did not support any mechanism of the beautification, renovation and redevelopment of the complex but only consented for removal of encroachments, cleaning of the Mandir and laying of sanitation and sewage.

It was also submitted that he never consented to the appointment of an independent Administrator.

"None of the Counsel, including Mr. Mirza, ld. Counsel for the Applicant, raised any objection in respect of the appointment of an independent Administrator. In fact, owing to the deplorable condition in the Kalkaji Mandir, there was consensus that an independent Administrator would be needed for looking after the Mandir. Accordingly, the same does not deserve to be modified."

It was submitted before the Delhi High Court that the police are not providing complete cooperation, for the removal of encroachments and management of the devotees for darshan.

The Court thus ordered,

“Accordingly, let today’s order be communicated to Mr. Sanjay Lao, Standing Counsel (Criminal) for GNCTD, in order to enable him to obtain instructions, and file a status report in respect thereof, before the next date of hearing. Mr. Lao shall also be present on the next date of hearing.”

The matter will now be considered on November 15, 2021.

Cause Title: Neeta Bhardwaj & Ors. vs Kamlesh Sharma