The Supreme Court of India has asked the Centre to provide a detailed response regarding the proposed relocation of the 135-year-old Central Secretariat Library in Delhi. This library, which houses more than 8.5 lakh books, is currently facing uncertainty about its place in the new Central Vista redevelopment plan.
- The Supreme Court issued a notice to the Centre seeking an affidavit with details about the area allotted for the library.
- The library has been housed in Shastri Bhawan since 1969, spread over four floors.
- The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs had reportedly allocated only two rooms in the Kartavya Bhawan-2 complex for the library.
- The Union housing ministry stated that space has been provided for the library in the new Central Vista plan.
What is the Supreme Court’s concern about the Central Secretariat Library?
The Supreme Court is concerned about the lack of clear space allocation for the Central Secretariat Library in the new Central Vista redevelopment plan. The court wants the Centre to clarify how much area will be allotted to the library and to provide the actual layout plan showing this allocation.
Why is the Central Secretariat Library important?
The Central Secretariat Library is a historic institution established over 135 years ago. It contains a vast collection of more than 8.5 lakh books and has served as a key resource for government officials and researchers. The library has been located in Shastri Bhawan since 1969, occupying four floors.
What is the current status of the library’s relocation?
According to recent reports, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs had allotted only two rooms in the Kartavya Bhawan-2 complex for the library, which raised concerns about whether this space is sufficient. However, the Union housing ministry has clarified that the library will have designated space in the Central Vista redevelopment plan.
What actions has the Supreme Court taken?
The Supreme Court bench, consisting of Justices Sanjay Kumar and Sanjeev Sachdeva, has issued a notice to the Centre and requested an affidavit. This affidavit must include full details of the area to be allotted to the library along with the actual layout plan. The court is actively monitoring the situation to ensure the library’s preservation and proper relocation.
What is the Central Vista redevelopment plan?
The Central Vista redevelopment plan is a government project aimed at renovating and modernizing the central administrative area of Delhi. It includes new government buildings and infrastructure upgrades. The plan has raised questions about the relocation of existing institutions like the Central Secretariat Library.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How old is the Central Secretariat Library?
A: The library is over 135 years old.
Q: How many books does the library hold?
A: It houses more than 8.5 lakh books.
Q: Where is the library currently located?
A: It is currently spread over four floors in Shastri Bhawan, Delhi.
Q: What did the Supreme Court ask the Centre to provide?
A: The court asked for an affidavit detailing the area allotted to the library and the actual layout plan in the new Central Vista redevelopment.
Q: Has the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs allocated space for the library?
A: Yes, the ministry stated that space has been provided in the Central Vista redevelopment plan, though initial reports suggested limited allocation.
