The Eviction Archives Project, initiated by students of the National Law University Delhi, is an endeavour inspired by the groundbreaking work of Aanchal Malhotra’s Material Memories Project. This initiative is dedicated to safeguarding the historical narratives of individuals and communities who have faced the heart-wrenching experience of losing their homes due to demolitions in Delhi. The project’s fundamental ethos lies in ensuring that those who have been displaced are not erased from the annals of history. By chronicling the stories of those affected by forced evictions, the project endeavours to create a comprehensive and empathetic archive that documents the collective memory of these communities. The heart of this project lies in the collection of firsthand accounts from individuals who have experienced the trauma of eviction.

Through interviews, oral histories, photographs, and artifacts, the project seeks to construct a vivid narrative that captures the essence of their lived experiences. By meticulously curating and archiving these stories and artifacts, the Eviction Archives Project not only preserves the collective memory of communities affected by demolitions but also raises awareness about the broader social, legal, and human rights issues surrounding forced evictions. These stories are not only testimonies to the resilience of the human spirit, but also poignant reminders of the profound impact that forced evictions have on individuals and communities.