HC vents out at North 24 Pgs DM, warns against re-encroachment on VIP road

The District Magistrate of North 24 Parganas appeared in person before the Calcutta High Court to submit a progress report regarding the removal of illegal encroachments along VIP Road. A division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Tapobrata Chakraborty and Justice Parthasarathy Chatterjee instructed state authorities to maintain continuous monitoring to prevent evicted squatters from returning. The personal appearance followed the court's earlier dissatisfaction when an officer was deputed to submit the compliance report instead of the District Magistrate.

The case stems from a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by resident Ardhendu Nag, seeking administrative action against illegal structures and unauthorized parking along VIP Road up to Ultodanga. State Advocate General Surjit Nath Mitra informed the bench that out of 24 identified illegal structures, 10 have already been demolished, with the removal of remaining encroachments currently underway. However, the petitioner's counsel argued that settlements and unauthorized parking facilities continue to operate without actual clearance.

Reiterating a strict stance, the High Court warned that it will not tolerate the re-emergence of illegal structures within days of eviction operations. The Advocate General assured the bench that strict administrative oversight will prevent future encroachments. Acknowledging initial progress in breaking the long-standing status quo, the court scheduled the next hearing for August 18, directing the District Magistrate to submit an updated report on that date.