The National Capital Territory of Delhi Laws (Special Provisions) Bill, 2009, introduced by Urban Development Minister S Jaipal Reddy, seeks to maintain status quo in unauthorised colonies, including village abadis (settlements) and their extensions, storages, warehouses and godowns for farm produce and other products.

It also proposes to extend relief to urban villages. The bill, for the period from January 1 to December 31, 2009, seeks to replace the National Capital Territory of Delhi Laws (Special Provisions) Act, 2007.

The moratorium prescribed under the 2007 Act had expired on December 31 last year, after which the MCD was bound the Supreme Court orders to resume the sealing of unauthorised commercial properties.

The statement of objects and reasons of the Bill said some more time is required to finalise norms, policy guidelines and feasible strategies to deal with the problem of encroachment by slum-dwellers and jhuggi-jhopri clusters.

However, the Delhi BJP criticised the move. Delhi BJP president O P Kohli said after giving temporary relief from sealing and demolition for the third time, the Union Urban Development Ministry is going to leave the sword of fear and terror hanging on the heads of the people.