"Delhi CM launches a ₹327-crore development initiative for JJ clusters, unveiling several key projects as part of Republic Day celebrations."

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Republic Day met residents of jhuggi jhopri (JJ) clusters and inaugurated a series of infrastructure projects worth about ₹327 crore aimed at improving living conditions in these settlements.

The projects were inaugurated at the Chief Minister’s residence. Of the total sanctioned amount, works worth ₹144 crore have already been awarded, officials said.

Addressing the gathering, Gupta said the Delhi government was committed to enhancing the quality of life of people living in JJ clusters. She alleged that previous governments had treated JJ residents merely as vote banks and created an atmosphere of fear and neglect, while the present dispensation viewed the struggles of the poor as its own.

The event was attended by cabinet minister Ashish Sood, Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva, Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) CEO Rupesh Thakur, and other senior officials and dignitaries. According to the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), several women from JJ clusters participated in the programme. The CMO added that the chief minister personally invited representatives from JJ clusters and shared lunch with them.

Among the approved works are public convenience complexes within JJ clusters. Under this scheme, ₹225 crore has been sanctioned for 476 projects, of which 214 works worth ₹81 crore have already been awarded. In addition, ₹102 crore has been approved for 254 cement-concrete works, with 172 projects worth ₹63 crore awarded so far.

Highlighting the contribution of JJ residents to the city’s development, Gupta said workers from these settlements play a crucial role in building Delhi and reiterated the government’s focus on ensuring that welfare measures reach the last mile.