The Delhi High Court has directed the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to consider and process the booking request of Sahil Viklang Sahayartha Samiti for holding the Janmashtami Mahotsav at the DDA Ground in B-Block, Janakpuri (also known as Dusshera Ground), noting that an earlier restraint on events at the venue had already been modified.
The petitioner had challenged the DDA’s refusal to allot the venue on the grounds of a 2018 High Court order that barred social, cultural, or commercial events at the park to preserve its recreational value. However, the Court acknowledged that the said order was subsequently modified in 2022, after the land use classification was changed from “Recreational (P2 District Park)” to “Recreational (Multi-purpose Ground)” in a decision chaired by the then Lieutenant Governor.
Taking note of this change and DDA’s own stand acknowledging the modified legal position, Justice Vikas Mahajan held that there was no longer any legal bar to such bookings. The Court thus disposed of the writ petition, directing DDA to process the request in accordance with applicable rules and policies.
Advocates appearing in the case
For Petitioner: Mr. Kirtiman Singh, Sr. Adv. with Mr. Mansimran Singh, Ms. Vishakha Ahuja and Mr. Neeraj Singh, Advs.
For Respondent: Ms. Manika Tripathy, Standing Counsel with Mr.Tushar Sannu and Mr. Aman Kumar, Advs. for DDA