Delhi High Court Declines Stay on Coach's Home Demolition

The Delhi High Court refused to halt the demolition of national pistol shooting coach Samaresh Jung's home due to lack of legal rights over the property, which was sub-leased to his family. Despite arguments citing long occupancy and service to the nation, the court upheld prior decisions supporting the demolition.

The Delhi High Court on Monday declined to halt the demolition of national pistol shooting coach Samaresh Jung's residence in Civil Lines, stressing the absence of legal right over the property, which was sub-leased to Jung's family.

Justice Sanjeev Narula dismissed a petition filed by Jung's brother, Sameer, which challenged a blanket demolition notice issued on March 1, 2024. The notice affected around 1,000 occupants in the Khyber Pass market area. Despite arguments highlighting the coach's contributions and long-term occupancy, the court maintained that public land should be treated uniformly.

The court noted that the petitioners were not provided an opportunity of hearing. However, it held that prior decisions rejecting similar appeals applied to this case as well. The court concluded that paying property tax did not confer any legal right over the property.

(With inputs from agencies.)