Sarojini Nagar Market has been one of the most sought-after street shopping destinations in Delhi. With the market crowded to the brink almost every day, locals and tourists often flock to their lanes in search of bargains- from clothing, shoes, home decor items, to accessories and so much more. However, in a joint anti-encroachment drive by the New Delhi Municipal Corporation and the Delhi Police, a total of 200 shops have been demolished in the market as of May 21, 2025.
According to Ashok Randhawa, president of the Sarojini Nagar Mini Traders Association, around 200 shops and stalls were removed from the footpaths and market areas to reclaim space for the citizens. All the stalls removed belonged to unauthorised vendors who saturated the market square, blocking the movement of pedestrians.
Details about the anti-encroachment drive
The mega encroachment drive was carried out on the night of May 17, 2025, from 11:30 pm until 1 am. The NDMC has offered a statement mentioning that the targeted shops were illegal extensions, including makeshift sheds and stalls that contributed to the congestion in the area. Delhi Police were present to provide security as the entire operation was conducted by the NDMC’s civic body.
“Unauthorised hawkers and obstruction affecting pedestrian movement were cleared effectively. Cleanliness and public convenience were prioritised to ensure a safe and accessible environment for visitors,” stated the Delhi Police. The drive was carried out to provide a cleaner, more accessible market to the public, free from congestion and illegal hawkers.
However, many shopkeepers and videos/statements via X state that the NDMC carried out the encroachment without any prior official order. Further, some licensed shops also witnessed some damage during the drive. “When we came to the market, we saw that hoardings and parts of some authorised shops were also broken,” says Mr. Ashok Ranshawa.
Despite the drive, the market remains fully operational and is functioning during its regular hours.