Delhi HC Orders Action Against Unauthorised Cafes in Majnu Ka Tila; Prioritises Safety

The PIL, filed by Arnav Singh and another petitioner, claimed many buildings lack sanctioned plans and fire safety measures. Most cafes, bars, and restaurants feature unauthorised basements, rooftops, and recreational spaces for visitors. The congested conditions in Majnu Ka Tila (MKT) pose an “immediate and life-threatening hazard”. Some buildings reach 7-8 storeys, with stairs only up to the third or fourth floor and upper levels accessed via small, low-capacity lifts. The petition urged the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and Delhi Fire Services to enforce the National Building Code and fire safety norms.

Noting that the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) had registered a suo motu complaint based on the PIL, a bench of Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela disposed of the petition, directing authorities to take appropriate legal action on the petitioners’ grievances within three months. The DDA’s counsel confirmed the complaint was registered on the Special Task Force portal for unauthorised constructions.

MKT is a popular café hub in Delhi, drawing heavy youth traffic, especially Delhi University students due to its proximity to North Campus. Its Instagram-worthy aesthetic cafes, shopping stalls, affordable Tibetan cuisine, and other activities attract crowds. Majnu Ka Tila showcases Tibetan culture with a small central temple, offering dishes like laphing, momos, boba tea, and other Pan-Asian options. It serves as a prime income source for the local Tibetan community.