The Supreme Court today (Nov 2, 2006)fixed for Monday hearing of applications filed by the Centre and MCD seeking permission for not resuming the sealing drive in the capital against those traders who have given undertakings to stop misuse of residential areas for commercial purposes.

The matter was listed for hearing on November 6 after Additional Solicitor General Amarender Sharan and senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, appearing for MCD, made mentions before a Bench headed by Justice K G Balakrishnan.

The Bench did not give any interim direction when the Additional Solicitor General sought permission from the court that till the time the matter comes up for hearing, the authorities be allowed to use their administrative discretion.

"We do not know what is your administrative discretion," the Bench remarked.

The Centre's application, filed by Urban Development Ministry, has sought modification of September 29 order by which the sealing was to commence on the premises of about 44,000 traders, who were allowed to continue their business till October 31 in view of the festivals.

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has also filed a similar application seeking suspension of the sealing drive against traders who have given an undertaking to prevent misuse of the premises in residential areas.