The NCDRC has ordered Godrej Projects to refund over INR 4 crore to homebuyers due to the builder's failure to deliver promised amenities, including a 24-metre-wide road, even after seven years. Despite the builder's claims of ongoing construction efforts, the Commission held it accountable for not fulfilling its commitments. Homebuyers are now entitled to seek refunds with penal interest, reinforcing their rights in such circumstances.Read more
The Taurus Downtown Trivandrum project is encountering major obstacles as the High Court has quashed a writ petition from Dragonstone Realty. This decision reinforces an NGT ruling that revoked the project's environmental clearance and imposed a penalty of INR 15 crore. The NGT's action followed an appeal by environmental activist Thomas Lawrence, and Dragonstone Realty is now seeking legal advice to challenge the judgment, potentially delaying the project further.Read more
MahaRERA has decided to suspend its proposed grading system for real estate projects in Maharashtra due to a lack of authority under the Real Estate Regulatory Act, 2016. Initially aimed at helping homebuyers make informed decisions, the grading system was based on four criteria related to developers' technical, financial, and legal information. Following inquiries from the Bombay High Court regarding project classification, MahaRERA had outlined a grading matrix to be updated biannually. However, senior officials have confirmed that the initiative is now on hold.Read more
The Maharashtra State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission recently directed a builder to compensate a Navi Mumbai family with INR 2.75 lakh for poor service and defects in their flat. The complaint, filed in 2019 by Ulwe residents Vir Bhan Sharma (65) and Disha Sharma (27), accused Dhulchand Naik, the proprietor of M/s Ashtavinayak Developer, of failing to address multiple issues, including severe leakage, non-functional lift, and improper fittings in their flat. The case highlights ongoing concerns over unfair trade practices in the real estate sector, with builders being held accountable for poor maintenance and unfulfilled promises.Read more
The Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA), under CEO Arun Vir Singh, has implemented new regulations to enhance industrial growth in the region. A review of industry department files revealed numerous requests for ownership changes lacking essential map approvals and construction proof, hindering industrial development. The revised guidelines require allottees to actively develop their plots, discouraging speculative purchases and promoting timely project initiation. This initiative aligns with YEIDA's vision of fostering industrialisation, with 12 operational units, including Vivo's production site in Sector 24A. Approximately 60-70 companies are expected to begin production by year's end, positioning the Yamuna Expressway area as a vital industrial hub for long-term growth and investment.Read more
The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has issued a show-cause notice to Cybage Software for alleged environmental violations during the construction of its new building in Kalyaninagar, Pune. The notice, prompted by resident complaints, cites excessive noise levels and improper water discharge. MPCB officials also observed expired blasting permissions and inadequate soundproofing measures. Residents of the nearby Kumar Kruti Housing Society reported noise and dust disturbances, with some considering relocation due to health concerns. Cybage, maintaining that it holds all necessary clearances, must respond within seven days or face potential penalties. This case highlights the need for stricter environmental compliance in urban developments.Read more
The Karnataka High Court upheld the Bangalore Development Authority's (BDA) authority to accept or reject bids in site auctions without providing reasons. A division bench overturned a single-judge ruling that had ordered the BDA to accept a bid from Sachin Nagarajappa. The court affirmed that under the BDA (Disposal of Corner Sites and Commercial Sites) Rules, 1984, the BDA is not obligated to explain bid rejections, provided they serve the public interest and aim for the highest price. As no evidence of fraud or misconduct was found, the court supported the BDA's discretion. This ruling reinforces the BDA's operational autonomy and sets a precedent for future public property auctions.Read more
The Allahabad High Court has stayed the Noida Authority's denial of construction permits to Satya Homes Pvt Ltd and others, instructing the Authority to reconsider the applications following proper legal procedures. The court highlighted that blanket restrictions without valid justification were not permissible. A fresh site inspection is to be conducted in November, with a report due by mid-November, allowing affected parties to raise objections before the next hearing scheduled for December.Read more
A Delhi court has upheld a lookout circular (LOC) against Geetamber Anand and his wife Poonam, promoters of ATS Infrastructure Limited, following multiple FIRs alleging fraud against homebuyers and money laundering. The judge noted that while the couple had cooperated with the investigation, the LOC serves to prevent any obstruction of justice. He also emphasised the necessity of informing accused individuals of reasons behind travel restrictions.Read more
The Haryana Real Estate Regulatory Authority (H-RERA) has issued 207 arrest warrants against 20 developers for failing to compensate homebuyers affected by delays in flat deliveries. Despite these orders, police have not enforced them, prompting H-RERA to approach the Punjab and Haryana High Court. Contempt proceedings are now underway in three cases against police due to this inaction. H-RERA's adjudicating officer, Rajender Kumar, emphasized the impact on thousands of homebuyers, while affected residents expressed frustration over the system's ineffectiveness in holding developers accountable. DCP Arpit Jain acknowledged the issue, stating that action would follow if court notices are received. H-RERA's appeal to the high court highlights the need for stronger regulatory enforcement to ensure justice for homebuyers and uphold faith in the real estate sector's regulatory framework.Read more