All India Institute of Medical Sciences v. Shailendra Bhatnagar - Writ Jurisdiction - Administrative Bodies
SC sets aside Delhi HC’s sewer-line directions, says courts can’t step into admin’s shoes
Constitution of India - Article 226,136 - Neither a High Court exercising jurisdiction under Article 226 of the Constitution of India nor this Court, exercising power under Article 136 of the Constitution, ought to step into the shoes of administrative bodies so as to resolve the problems faced by those living in overcrowded colonies with inadequate infrastructural facilities by coming up with remedial measures. The authorities concerned to take note of such issues and devise feasible solutions as per law. Needless to state, such an exercise would entail participation of all stakeholders concerned and it is for the authorities to undertake that exercise and come up with a solution. (Para 5)
Case Info
Basic Case Information
Case name: All India Institute of Medical Sciences v. Shailendra Bhatnagar & Ors.Neutral citation: Not mentioned in the extracted text.Coram: Hon’ble Mr. Justice Sanjay Kumar and Hon’ble Mr. Justice K. Vinod Chandran.Judgment date: 14 May 2026 (as indicated at the end of the signed order and in the record of proceedings).
Statutes / Laws Referred
The order refers to:
- Article 226 of the Constitution of India (High Court’s writ jurisdiction).
- Article 136 of the Constitution of India (Supreme Court’s appellate jurisdiction).
Three‑Sentence Brief Summary
AIIMS challenged an interim order of the Delhi High Court which had itself taken on the task of designing and directing implementation of a sewer line/drainage solution for Green Park Extension and surrounding areas, issuing directions to DJB, MCD, AIIMS and others. The Supreme Court held that, while the drainage and waterlogging problems are serious and must be addressed urgently, it is for the competent government and local authorities—not the courts exercising jurisdiction under Articles 226 or 136—to devise and implement infrastructural solutions. Accordingly, the Court set aside the High Court’s interim order, directed all concerned authorities to jointly formulate a definite, feasible plan with stakeholder participation, report to the High Court, and left it open for the High Court only to monitor implementation.