New Delhi, June 3, 2025 

The Delhi High Court on Monday dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) that alleged illegal construction in South Delhi, terming it “frivolous” and “abuse of judicial process.” The court imposed a cost of ₹7.5 lakh on the petitioner for initiating proceedings without any direct involvement or credible evidence.

A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora observed that the petitioner lacked locus standi and filed the plea without personal interest, responsibility, or supporting documents.

“This is a classic case of misuse of PIL jurisdiction by someone with no direct connection to the issue,” the Court stated.

No Direct Stake in the Matter

The petitioner had alleged that the construction violated municipal norms and sought the court’s intervention. However, during the hearing, it emerged that the petitioner neither resided in the area in question nor had verified the facts independently.

The Bench noted that the plea appeared to be filed based on “hearsay and speculative assertions,” and had the potential to harass private parties without valid grounds.

Court’s Warning Against PIL Misuse

Taking a firm stand, the High Court reiterated that PILs are meant for genuine public grievances and not for individuals pursuing hidden agendas or publicity. The Court emphasized that misusing PIL provisions wastes valuable judicial time and undermines the seriousness of legitimate causes.

“Judicial time cannot be squandered on litigations initiated without bona fide intention,” the Court said, adding that the PIL lacked both substance and sincerity.

Directions for Cost Payment

The Court directed the petitioner to deposit ₹7.5 lakh with the Delhi State Legal Services Authority (DSLSA) within four weeks. The amount will be used to support legal aid and public legal education initiatives under DSLSA’s mandate.

Increasing Scrutiny of PILs

This decision aligns with a recent judicial trend of filtering non-serious or manipulative PILs. The courts have been reinforcing that public interest litigation must not become a tool for settling private disputes or seeking media attention.