Madrasi Camp demolished in Dehi: TN govt offers support to residents

After the shanties of 370 families of the Madrasi Camp in Delhi’s Jangpura inhabited by Tamil migrants were demolished on Sunday (June 1), the Tamil Nadu government has stepped in to offer support to those who have been left homeless and wish to return to their home state.

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Of the 370 families, only 215 have found rehabilitation in Narela, around 50 kilometres away. The slum was demolished as per the directions of the Delhi High Court to clear the nearby Barapullah drain.

Option to return to TN

“…All legal petitions filed by the residents of ‘Madrasi Camp’ have been adjudicated and disposed of by the Hon’ble High Court of Delhi vide order dated 09.05.2025. The said order mandates the commencement of demolition activities at ‘Madrasi Camp’ with effect from 01.06.2025. All legal avenues available to the residents of ‘Madrasi Camp’ for retaining the unauthorised constructions at the site have been duly exhausted. As per the instructions of the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, the ‘Tamil Nadu House’ in New Delhi has been tasked with actively facilitating and overseeing coordination efforts,” the Tamil Nadu government said in a press release.

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“Reaffirming its unwavering commitment to the welfare of persons of Tamil Nadu origin residing outside the State, the Government of Tamil Nadu is in active coordination with the residents of ‘Madrasi Camp’ to ensure that every possible support is extended to them without delay. As directed by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, the Government of Tamil Nadu shall assist the residents of ‘Madrasi Camp’ who choose to return to their native districts in Tamil Nadu,” it added.

'Comprehensive support'

The Tamil Nadu government said “comprehensive support, including assistance for livelihood and other essential needs” will be provided to the residents, and the assistance will be facilitated “through the offices of the District Collectors concerned to ensure timely and effective implementation”.

Speaking to The Federal, TN House Information Officer Rajesh Kannan said the Resident Commissioner was in touch with residents of the Madrasi Camp. “As of now, nobody has approached us saying they want to return. We have told them that they have the option to do so and we will help them,” he said.