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10 July 2026

Supreme Court on unauthorised constructions

The Supreme Court's intervention regarding urban planning, fire safety compliance, and the accountability of civic bodies provides a concrete example of judicial oversight in governance and disaster management.

1 min read Day 6 of 10 2 questions 1 prelims

Notes

  • Supreme Court has expressed concern over the 'slackness' of civic authorities in addressing unauthorised constructions in Delhi, Gurugram, and Lucknow.
  • The Court linked the proliferation of unauthorised buildings in congested areas to recent fatal fire incidents, including events in Malviya Nagar (June 3) and Lucknow (June 22).
  • Amicus curiae report highlighted a fire in a multi-storey building in Hauz Rani, Delhi, resulting in 23 deaths and over 50 rescues.
  • A fire in a multi-storey building in Aliganj, Lucknow, resulted in 15 deaths, including students.
  • The Supreme Court is monitoring the Municipal Corporation of Delhi's (MCD) compliance with judicial directions issued in 2024, specifically those from May 20.
  • Reports indicate that 93% of buildings in Gurugram are non-compliant with fire safety norms.
  • The Supreme Court has mandated detailed reports from civic bodies and the personal appearance of the executive head of the Gurugram civic body for the next hearing on August 4.

Part of a longer story

This is day 6 of 10 in Lucknow commercial building fire investigation, which has been running since 23 June 2026. Reading it whole is usually worth more than reading today alone — the exam asks how something developed.

Questions

  1. The proliferation of unauthorised constructions in urban centers poses a significant challenge to public safety and disaster management. Discuss the role of the judiciary in ensuring administrative accountability regarding urban planning and fire safety norms. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. Unplanned urbanization and the failure of civic bodies to enforce building codes have led to recurring urban disasters in India. Analyze the systemic causes of these failures and suggest institutional reforms required to ensure sustainable and safe urban development. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. With reference to the recent observations of the Supreme Court regarding unauthorised constructions, which of the following statements is correct?