Will the Supreme Court's Call Prompt Action Against Unauthorized Constructions in Kolkata?
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Synopsis
The Supreme Court has urged the Calcutta High Court to take immediate steps against unauthorized constructions in Kolkata, emphasizing the need for strict action to protect public interest. This call comes amid rising concerns about violations of building regulations in the city, particularly a case involving unauthorized building extensions.
Key Takeaways
- The Supreme Court demands action against unauthorized constructions.
- Calcutta High Court is urged to prioritize public interest.
- Case highlights violations of sanctioned building plans.
- Howrah Zilla Parishad found developers acted knowingly.
- Importance of regulatory compliance in urban development.
New Delhi, Sep 1 (NationPress) The Supreme Court has urged the Calcutta High Court to take decisive action against every unauthorized construction throughout Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal.
A bench comprising Justices J.B. Pardiwala and K.V. Viswanathan dismissed a petition from a private firm and other claimants against a ruling by the Calcutta High Court. The bench remarked that unauthorized constructions that violate regulations must be addressed sternly under the law.
"It is crucial for the Calcutta High Court to prioritize this matter (of unauthorized constructions) in the larger public interest and ensure that all unauthorized constructions in Kolkata are managed appropriately according to legal guidelines," stated the bench led by Justice Pardiwala.
The case focused on a structure in the Chakpara area of Howrah, where the Howrah Zilla Parishad discovered that developers had unlawfully added a fifth floor and cantilever projections against the approved plan.
In a resolution dated August 12, 2024, the Parishad determined that the deviations were executed "knowingly and deliberately," instructing the builders, M/s T.S. Construction, Tapas Saha, and Supriyo Mazumdar, to "remove the unauthorized sections of their building at their expense."
In a November 2024 ruling, the Calcutta High Court upheld the Howrah Zilla Parishad's decision, dismissing the developers' claims based on a revised plan submitted in 2021.
The petitioners referred to Regulation 2015 of the Howrah Zilla Parishad Bye-laws, 2005, to support their case.
Having dismissed the special leave petition against the Calcutta High Court's ruling, the Supreme Court noted that the Bye-laws were properly addressed by the High Court.
The bench led by Justice Pardiwala endorsed the Calcutta High Court's stance and commended its commitment to taking necessary measures against such unauthorized constructions throughout the city.
Ultimately, the apex court called for prompt action from the Calcutta High Court regarding unauthorized constructions in Kolkata.
Point of View
I believe that the Supreme Court's intervention highlights the pressing need for adherence to construction regulations in Kolkata. The current situation not only threatens public safety but also undermines urban planning efforts. It is essential for the Calcutta High Court to act decisively, ensuring that the law prevails and unauthorized constructions are eradicated.
NationPress
04/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What action did the Supreme Court take regarding unauthorized constructions in Kolkata?
The Supreme Court urged the Calcutta High Court to take action against all unauthorized constructions in Kolkata, emphasizing the need for strict enforcement of building regulations.
What specific case prompted the Supreme Court's directive?
The directive was prompted by a case involving a building in Howrah's Chakpara area, where developers added unauthorized structures beyond the approved plan.
What was the response of the Calcutta High Court to the Howrah Zilla Parishad's findings?
The Calcutta High Court upheld the Howrah Zilla Parishad's decision to order the removal of unauthorized portions of the building, dismissing the developers' claims regarding a revised plan.
