The Delhi Development Act, 1957

The Delhi Development Act, 1957, was enacted to provide for the planned development of Delhi, establishing the Delhi Development Authority and outlining procedures for the preparation and implementation of master and zonal development plans.

1: Act Background and Ministry Under Which This Act Is:

The Delhi Development Act, 1957, was enacted to provide for the development of Delhi according to plan and for matters ancillary thereto. This act aimed to create a framework for the planned development of Delhi, addressing issues of urbanization and infrastructure. The act falls under the administrative purview of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, which oversees matters related to urban planning and development in India. The ministry plays a crucial role in ensuring the sustainable and planned growth of urban areas.

2: Enactment Date, Number of Chapters, Number of Sections:

The Delhi Development Act, 1957, was enacted on 27th December, 1957, and is known as Act No. 61 of 1957. The act is structured into eight chapters. It comprises 60 sections, covering various aspects such as definitions, the establishment of the Delhi Development Authority, master and zonal development plans, development of lands, acquisition and disposal of land, finance, accounts and audit, and miscellaneous provisions. The act also includes provisions for a National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) and a National Exit Test (NEXT). The act has been amended over time to reflect changing requirements.

3: Act Governed By:

The Delhi Development Act is governed by the Central Government, which has the power to make rules and regulations under the Act. The act also establishes the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to oversee the planning and development of Delhi. The act is governed by the provisions outlined within it, as well as rules and regulations framed by the Central government. It is therefore a combination of central authority and local authority implementation.

4: On Whom It Is Applicable:

The provisions of The Delhi Development Act are applicable to the Delhi Development Authority, its members, the Advisory Council, the Central Government, the State Government of Delhi, local authorities, and all persons involved in the development of land and buildings in Delhi. The act ensures that all actions and activities are in accordance with the regulations outlined, as well as the Act’s mandate and guiding principles. The general public are indirect beneficiaries of the Act’s provisions. The act’s focus is to regulate and ensure planned development.

5: Penalties/Punishments:

The act prescribes penalties for various violations, including:

• Contravention of Plans: Using land or buildings in contravention of the master or zonal development plans attracts fines.

• Unauthorized Development: Undertaking development without permission attracts penalties.

• Obstruction: Obstructing authorities in the execution of their duties attracts fines. The act emphasizes compliance through penalties.

6: Important Pointers:

• Delhi Development Authority (DDA): The act establishes the DDA as the primary planning and development authority for Delhi.

• Master and Zonal Plans: It provides for the preparation and implementation of master and zonal development plans.

• Development Areas: It empowers the government to declare development areas for planned development.

• Permission for Development: It mandates that permission be obtained from the DDA before undertaking any development work.

• Acquisition of Land: It provides for the acquisition of land for development purposes.

• Betterment Charges: It allows the DDA to levy betterment charges on properties that benefit from development.

• Rule-Making Power: It empowers the Central Government and the DDA to make rules and regulations for carrying out the purposes of the act. The act provides a comprehensive framework for planned urban development.

7: Act Copy: