Supreme Court lets off Delhi LG and DDA in contempt case over tree cutting fiasco

The Supreme Court of India concluded contempt proceedings against Delhi Development Authority (DDA) officials for cutting over 600 trees in the Delhi Ridge area without prior approval, violating a 1996 court order. Although the act amounted to criminal contempt, the Court viewed it as an administrative misjudgment made to facilitate access to the CAPFIMS hospital for paramilitary forces. A ₹25,000 fine was imposed on each responsible DDA officer, except the chairperson and vice-chairperson. The Court directed the creation of a three-member committee to supervise compensatory afforestation—planting about 70,000 trees over 185 acres—with periodic progress reporting. DDA was also instructed to complete the road project while ensuring dense greenery on both sides. Delhi LG VK Saxena, though not a respondent, clarified via affidavit that he wasn’t aware prior Court approval was needed. The Court accepted the explanation and emphasized the need to balance development with environmental preservation.