The Supreme Court on Monday provided temporary respite to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) by extending the deadline to vacate its Rouse Avenue office premises till August 10. The order came after AAP filed an application seeking an extension from the earlier June 15 deadline.
A vacation bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta noted submissions by senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, representing AAP, and granted the extension as the “last opportunity.” The court stated, “We extend the time granted by earlier order till August 10, 2024, on the undertaking by the applicant within a week that they will hand over peaceful possession of the property.”
AAP has been seeking office space allotment from the Centre, citing its national party status. However, the Delhi High Court had directed AAP to vacate the Rouse Avenue premises by June 15, as the plot was allotted for expanding judicial infrastructure.
During the hearing, the Delhi HC counsel emphasized the urgency, stating, “Every year, our building costs are escalated. We have a shortage of 90 courtrooms.” The council also highlighted the underlying tussle between AAP and the Centre over the office space allotment.
As the August 10 deadline approaches, the focus shifts to AAP’s compliance with the Supreme Court’s order and the resolution of this contentious issue between the party and the judiciary over office premises.
