In a striking move to protect India’s rich heritage, the Supreme Court has commanded the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to immediately clear out its unauthorized office operating within a 500-year-old Lodhi-era tomb known as Shaikh Ali Gumti. This ancient monument, a rare archaeological gem, was handed over peacefully earlier this year by the Defence Colony Welfare Association (DCWA) after a long-standing dispute.
The court’s order, issued on May 14, comes after months of wrangling over illegal encroachments surrounding the tomb. The DCWA, which had occupied the site for nearly six decades, faced a hefty ₹40 lakh penalty for unauthorized use and structural alterations to the historic site. Meanwhile, the MCD had been running an office and parking facility on the peripheral land without any legal right.
Despite a prior directive from the court on April 8 to vacate all encroachments within two weeks, the MCD failed to comply. The Supreme Court’s latest ruling insists on immediate possession transfer to the Land & Development Office (L&DO), the rightful owner. Following this, the monument will be handed over to Delhi’s Department of Archaeology to begin urgent restoration and conservation efforts.
In addition, the court has ordered removal of a small, tilted wall that obscures the tomb’s view from its main entrance — a step aimed at restoring the monument’s historic visibility and dignity. The case will be reviewed again on May 16 to monitor progress.
This legal battle traces back to a petition by a local resident demanding protection of the tomb under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958. An investigation revealed not only illegal occupation but unauthorized structural changes made by the DCWA, including modifications to openings, installations of meters, wiring, and additions like washrooms and parking sheds.
The Land & Development Office has maintained that the monument was never legally allocated to any private entity, confirming the unauthorized nature of the occupation dating back to 1963.
An expert from the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) has been appointed to assess the damage and advise on restoration measures. The Supreme Court’s firm stand in this case underlines a renewed commitment to preserving India’s architectural legacy from neglect and misuse.