Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Delhi HC Lets Khan Market Eateries Operate Without Fire NOC Under 50-Guest Cap

The decision reflects a balance between safety rules and the heritage market's structural limits.

Overview

  • The Delhi High Court, which ruled Friday, allowed Khan Market restaurants to operate without a fire department no‑objection certificate if they keep occupancy below 50 people.
  • Restaurant owners gave the court an undertaking to cap guests at 50 at all times and to follow any fire‑safety measures ordered by authorities.
  • The court said any enforcement over the absence of a fire NOC must come with at least 30 days' prior notice.
  • The ruling applies to outlets in the New Delhi Municipal Council area, while related cases under the Municipal Corporation of Delhi are still pending with a hearing listed for April 20.
  • Justice Purushaindra Kumar Kaurav cited the market's heritage status and single practical entry and exit to upper floors as reasons standard assembly‑building requirements are hard to meet.