Supreme Court Grants Aam Aadmi Party Extension to Vacate Rouse Avenue Offices by June 15, 2024

 

The recent decision by the Supreme Court granting the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) time until June 15, 2024, to vacate its offices at Rouse Avenue has drawn attention to the ongoing legal dispute surrounding the land's allocation. The apex court's ruling comes in response to concerns regarding the allocation of the land to the Delhi High Court for the expansion of judicial infrastructure.

A bench comprising Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud and Justices J B Pardiwala and Manoj Misra granted the AAP the opportunity to approach the Land & Development Office (L&DO) to seek alternative accommodations for its offices. The bench emphasized that the AAP does not possess lawful rights to continue occupying the land in question.

Senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, representing the AAP, highlighted the party's national status and raised concerns about the fairness of the allocation process. Singhvi underscored the disparity in the allocation of land, asserting that the AAP had been assigned less desirable locations compared to other political parties.

In light of the upcoming general elections, the Supreme Court extended the deadline for the AAP to vacate the premises until June 15, 2024. This extension aims to facilitate the swift utilization of the land for the expansion of the district judiciary's infrastructure.

Earlier directives from the Supreme Court had instructed the Delhi government and the Registrar General of the Delhi High Court to collaborate on addressing the issue of encroachment by the AAP on the land designated for the High Court at Rouse Avenue.

The decision underscores the importance of upholding legal principles and ensuring the efficient allocation and utilization of public resources. It also highlights the judiciary's role in adjudicating disputes and resolving conflicts in a fair and transparent manner. As the AAP navigates this legal challenge, it underscores the complexities and responsibilities associated with governance and compliance with legal norms.