Almost after a halt of two months, the municipal authorities will resume sealing operations against illegal establishments in the capital. About 55,000 such shops will be targeted this time.

The action starts after the Supreme Court order to target illegal shops and commercial establishments that do not confirm to the Master Plan for Delhi-2021. MCD has decided to resume sealing operations on the roads falling under the mixed land use category. The sealing will be carried out simultaneously in 11 of the 12 civic zones. Narela zone has been left out because of no notification for this area, rest all zones will face the heat.

Over 55,000 commercial units running illegally in 573 mixed land-use roads will be sealed in the coming days. These shops operate from the first floor and above. On roads notified for mixed land use, commercial activities, except hazardous businesses, are allowed that too from the ground floor shops. The previous sealing drive resulted in the closure of over 14,000 shops and offices that were operating illegally from residential areas, throwing thousands of people out of jobs.

The drive would continue regardless of civic elections early next month. The court, however, allowed a four-day break - between April 4 and 7 - to facilitate the polling and counting process for MCD elections to be held on April 5. The ruling congress government fears the sealing drive as it would affect the turnover of the votes or them. In its election campaign, it is showcasing the new Master Plan that has provisions to legalize over 1,500 illegal colonies apart from giving a respite to traders who run their businesses from residential colonies.

Last time saw violence on the part of the traders, who are not ready to forego their businesses and are opposing the sealing drive. This time, the Delhi police have assured the MCD of adequate security for the sealing squads.

It must be made sure that only the illegal establishments face the dragon. Justice should prevail and political parties should not use the situation for their favor and not make dirty business out of the it.
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