The Delhi High Court has directed suspended IAS officer Udit Prakash Rai (IAS:2007:AGMUT) to vacate his official bungalow in Delhi, which was allegedly constructed after demolishing a historical monument. Rai served as the CEO of Delhi Jal Board from October 18, 2021, to May 31, 2022, and is currently a secretary in Mizoram.
Rai’s wife contested the July 28 notice from the DJB to vacate the bungalow within 15 days. During the hearing, the respondents did not dispute that Rai is entitled to government accommodation in Delhi despite his posting in Mizoram. The lawyer representing Rai’s wife mentioned their intention to submit a representation to the Principal Secretary, PWD, for an alternative house as per the rules, and they assured to vacate the current bungalow promptly.
Justice Prateek Jalan directed the Principal Secretary, PWD, to process the representation within two weeks and allocate accommodation as per the rules. The court also asked Rai’s wife to provide an undertaking within a week, confirming they would vacate the accommodation. The issue of allegations against Rai and the demolition of the monument will be examined separately.
Rai was suspended by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for his alleged involvement in constructing an official accommodation by demolishing a 15th-century monument during his tenure as DJB’s CEO. The monument was a historic palace located in the Jal Vihar area of southeast Delhi.
