Supreme Court Retains Final Say On Bhopal Master Plan, Orders Strict Sealing Compliance

Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh: The Supreme Court has maintained its final authority over the Bhopal Master Plan, issuing an order for strict adherence to sealing regulations. The government has assured the court that it will publish the draft plan, which has been pending for 21 years, while complying with the court's directives. The court emphasized that the final Master Plan can only be published after reviewing its details and granting approval.

The controversy revolves around commercial activities in residential areas and the Bhopal Municipal Corporation's (BMC) sealing drive. The court previously directed action against unauthorized commercial use and questioned any measures that might hinder enforcement efforts. Counsel for the Madhya Pradesh Government informed the court that no additional committees would be formed, and sealing operations would not be impeded.

The government can proceed with publishing the draft plan and accepting claims and objections, but they must seek the court's permission before final publication. The court further requested strict compliance with the sealing orders following complaints that certain establishments sealed by the BMC have since reopened.

Prior to the Tuesday hearing, the BMC had issued 8,084 notices but had only officially sealed 10 establishments. Naveen Soni, an assistant to Amicus Curiae AK Sinha, stated that the state government has been granted permission to issue the new Master Plan, but implementation will require approval from the Supreme Court. Additionally, 14,200 liters of illicit mahua liquor were seized, and 12 furnaces were destroyed in Bhopal.