22 Nov 2024

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) recently returned an INR 12 crore plot of land in Chennai to its rightful owner after it was fraudulently seized and sold by land grabbers. The land was unlawfully encroached upon, and documents were forged to falsely claim ownership. The ED took action under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), following an FIR filed by the Chennai Police. The property was attached in 2017, and this action was confirmed by the PMLA Adjudicating Authority. The ED emphasised its commitment to combating financial crimes and ensuring justice for victims by recovering illegally obtained assets.Read more

22 Nov 2024

Around 60 beneficiaries of the Kalaignar Kanavu Illam housing scheme in Kotagiri, Nilgiris, staged a silent protest demanding the immediate release of the first instalment of INR 75,000 for constructing their homes. Many have started construction using loans due to delays in fund disbursement, with some progressing to the lintel level. Officials had urged beneficiaries to begin construction to avoid cancellation of work orders, intensifying financial strain. Block Development Officer K Sridharan assured the protesters that funds would be released within a week, failing which they plan to escalate their demands. The protest highlights the need for efficient implementation of welfare schemes.Read more

22 Nov 2024

Mumbai police have arrested estate agent Narshim Puttawallu for allegedly altering property records to enable illegal construction by Rupa and Bharat Mehta on disputed land in Malad. The case began in 2016 when landowner Vaibhav Thakur reported unauthorised construction on his ancestral plot. Investigations revealed forged documents and illegal reservation changes facilitated by Puttawallu. While charges of cheating, forgery, and conspiracy were filed against Rupa Mehta in 2021, a Special Investigation Team later identified Puttawallu's role. The case highlights concerns over fraudulent property dealings in Mumbai's suburbs, emphasising the need for stricter regulations to curb illegal construction and document manipulation.Read more

22 Nov 2024

The Tamil Nadu Electricity Ombudsman has ruled that owning two flats connected by an internal passage does not justify having separate electricity service connections, even if separate property taxes and maintenance charges are paid. The decision was made in response to Mylapore resident S. Manimekalai's petition after Tangedco flagged the issue, citing a breach of the Tamil Nadu Electricity Regulatory Commission (TNERC) code. The Ombudsman upheld the CGRF's rejection of her appeal, stating that separate connections require permanent physical separation between flats. This ruling reinforces compliance with TNERC regulations, urging residents to adhere to standards to avoid penalties.Read more

22 Nov 2024

The TCP department of Goa has approved seven zoning change proposals, including the conversion of orchard land for various development projects. Inorbit Malls India has received approval for converting 23,497 sqm of orchard and natural cover land for a new mall in the state, subject to forest department clearance and preservation of a heritage trail. One of the larger approvals, involving 1,68,800 sqm of land in Pernem, has raised concerns, as it will be changed from orchard land to settlement, allowing for private residential projects.Read more

21 Nov 2024

Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has flagged over 1,500 buildings constructed in violation of approved plans following a survey started on October 28. Notices are being issued to property owners to demolish these unauthorized structures. BBMP officials clarified that adhering to the Karnataka Town and Country Planning Act could take 3 to 4 months to complete the demolition process. The civic body follows a step-by-step procedure, with owners being given time to comply. Senior officials highlighted the need for a mahazar in the owner's presence before demolition, though BBMP can act quickly in dangerous situations. Unauthorized schools, hospitals, and residences make up most of the identified buildings.Read more

21 Nov 2024

A recent inspection by the groundwater department revealed that 140 out of 164 residential societies in Noida and Greater Noida had non-functional rainwater harvesting systems, with 10 lacking the systems entirely. Only 14 societies were found to have operational systems. The Noida Authority, after meeting with the groundwater department, decided to issue notices to all societies, providing them with 15 days to comply. A joint inspection will follow, and non-compliance will result in enforcement actions.Read more

21 Nov 2024

The Department of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) has issued a formal reminder to various departments, urging immediate action against unauthorised buildings in Palam Vihar's C-2 Block. The illegal construction of 16 flats per plot on 11 sites has led to overcrowding and strain on local services. Despite prior directives to disconnect utilities and halt property registrations, little action has been taken. A petition has been filed in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which is set to hear the case in December. Local residents and the RWA are calling for stronger enforcement against these violations.Read more

21 Nov 2024

The Madhya Pradesh Industrial Development Corporation (MPIDC) is actively identifying land parcels across the state to establish new industrial zones and clusters. This initiative aims to attract local investors to set up manufacturing facilities. MPIDC is focusing on enhancing infrastructure, with plans to build an effluent treatment plant, improve road connectivity, and ensure a reliable water supply at these zones. The state government is prioritising these developments to create a favourable environment for local industries, particularly in sectors like food processing, fabrication, and chemicals.Read more

21 Nov 2024

Residents of Malabar Hill, supported by activists, are opposing the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) decision to lease a 2,432-square-metre plot near Ramabai Ambedkar Marg for private development. The plot, originally allocated for a public garden, currently hosts a disused BEST substation. Activists argue that converting the land for commercial use violates its green and heritage designation. BMC has issued a tender with a base price of INR 545 crore to fund infrastructure projects. Residents, led by activist Zoru Bathena, have submitted a letter urging BMC to restore the garden, emphasising the area's environmental and heritage significance over commercial interests.Read more