The apex court last month redirected the Delhi Police and the MCD to commence the sealing drive against unauthorized structures in the national capital, putting the Delhi Master Plan 2021 to legal testimony.

A Bench headed by Justice Arijit Pasayat had pulled up both Delhi Police Commissioner K K Paul and MCD Commissioner A K Nigam over the suspension of the drive in violation of the court's order. The court directed both to finish sealing drive without any more complaints. 

MCD had suspended its sealing of illegal shops and commercial establishments in residential areas on April 3, 4 and 9 because of civic elections. It blamed inadequate police protection for its inability to resume the drive. 

The police on the other hand blamed MCD. 

The court had asked the Centre to file an affidavit by April 23, detailing the steps it plans to take for implementing the Master Plan 2021.

On March 28, the MCD resumed the sealing drive against unauthorised structures, which did not conform to the Master Plan. However, the sealing was stopped to accommodate the MCD poll process held between April 5 and 7.

Meanwhile, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has claimed that the "unstable atmosphere" coupled with uncertainty has forced the traders to divert their business from Delhi to other states. 

CAIT further claimed that thousands of Delhi shops were closed since months due to sealing and so far the government has not taken any cognisance of such shopkeepers and their employees. It has even urged for a 'compensation package' for such traders and their employees.

It went on to demand that the land owned by DDA or the land which was being vacated from encroachments must be converted into designated markets which may be allotted as early as possible to such traders on 'No Profit- No Loss' basis.