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The Karnataka High Court recently intervened to halt the Bangalore Development Authority's (BDA) decision to disconnect electricity and revoke occupancy certificates for Kendriya Vihar Apartments in Yelahanka. This action followed directives from the Fire and Emergency Services Department, which cited lapses in renewing mandatory fire safety clearances. Residents contended that they were not granted a fair hearing before these punitive measures were initiated. The court's stay offers temporary relief as the legal proceedings continue.
The Karnataka High Court has issued a stay against the Bangalore Development Authority's (BDA) attempt to disconnect power and cancel occupancy certificates for Kendriya Vihar Apartments in Yelahanka. This decision came after residents filed a petition asserting that the BDA's actions were taken without providing them an opportunity for a fair hearing. Advertisement
The controversy began when the Fire and Emergency Services Department directed the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (BESCOM) and the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) to withhold approvals and disconnect electricity to the 24-year-old apartment complex. The department cited the apartment's failure to renew its mandatory fire-clearance certificate, a requirement under the National Building Code and state regulations that mandates renewal every two years. An inspection in 2024 by the Yelahanka fire station confirmed violations of safety and zoning regulations.
Despite several reminders and a final seven-day notice issued in March 2025, the clearance remained pending. Consequently, the department formally requested BESCOM to disconnect power and instructed BBMP to withhold or cancel the project's possession certificate. Copies of the directive were also sent to the building owner and local representatives.
The High Court's intervention provides temporary relief to the residents, ensuring that their electricity supply remains uninterrupted while the matter is under judicial review.
While regulatory bodies must ensure compliance to safeguard residents, it's equally vital that enforcement measures are executed transparently and justly. The Kendriya Vihar case serves as a reminder for residential complexes to maintain up-to-date safety certifications and for authorities to uphold due process, balancing safety concerns with residents' rights.
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