Chennai, 2 June (H.S.) : The Tamil Nadu government has announced its readiness to provide assistance to residents of Delhi's Madrasi Camp, predominantly inhabited by people of Tamil Nadu origin, if they choose to return to their home districts. The announcement comes after a demolition drive was carried out at the camp to remove unauthorized encroachments along the Barapullah drain.

According to the government, comprehensive support will be extended to the residents, including assistance for livelihood and other essential needs. This assistance will be facilitated through the offices of the concerned district collectors to ensure timely and effective implementation. The government has also tasked the Tamil Nadu House in New Delhi with actively facilitating and overseeing coordination efforts.

The Madrasi Camp, comprising 370 slum dwellings, was deemed an unauthorized encroachment by the Delhi High Court, which directed the removal of slums along the Barapullah drain. A survey was conducted, and around 190 families met the eligibility criteria for rehabilitation and relocation. These beneficiaries were allotted residential units under the Economically Weaker Section category of the Delhi Development Authority in Narela.

The demolition drive has sparked controversy, with Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Delhi state president Saurabh Bharadwaj criticizing the timing, pointing out that it came immediately after the Delhi CM claimed that no jhuggi would be touched. The Tamil Nadu government has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of people of Tamil Nadu origin residing outside the state.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary