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Synopsis

The Delhi High Court on Thursday restrained the forest department from organizing the 'Walk with Wildlife' event within the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary situated in the southern Ridge.

The event, which included a walkathon scheduled for December 9 and 10, faced scrutiny in court following concerns raised by the amici curiae appointed in a case related to Ridge conservation and encroachment removal.

The bench of Justice Jasmeet Singh, who had reserved judgment on the matter earlier this week, announced the restraining order, stating, "The respondents are restrained from conducting the proposed event till further orders."

"In view of the above and for the aforesaid reasons, the respondents are restrained from conducting the proposed event, i.e., the Cyclothon and Walkathon, till further orders," the court added. 

Amici curiae, Advocates Gautam Narayan and Aditya N Prasad, argued before the court that no human activity should be permitted within the Asola Bhatti sanctuary, designated as a protected zone with diverse wildlife. They contended that the approval for the event lacked due diligence.

In response, the government lawyer assured the court that the decision to hold the event was made "at the highest level," adhering to established norms. The event aimed to familiarize people with the sanctuary's rich flora and fauna, he submitted.

During the hearings, Justice Singh expressed concerns about the safety of individuals within the sanctuary, which is home to approximately nine leopards, hyenas, jackals, and other wildlife species. The court had reserved its order after hearing arguments from all parties involved.

The restraining order underscores the court's commitment to balancing human activities with the protection and preservation of sensitive ecological areas, ensuring the well-being of both wildlife and citizens.

Case Title: Devinder v. The Lt. Governor & Ors.