The Bombay High Court (HC) has directed Navi Mumbai’s planning authorities to take immediate action against illegal constructions in the city. These orders are made for the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC), Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), and the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO).
The court’s instructions come after these bodies failed to comply with a 2018 ruling that ordered the demolition of illegal buildings and the prevention of further unlawful construction. The court expressed its frustration with the authorities, saying their failure to act has caused difficulty for the city's residents.
The High Court had previously instructed the formation of a grievance redressal committee to allow residents to file complaints about illegal constructions. It also ordered the creation of special cells to address jurisdiction disputes. Despite these, the authorities have been slow to act.
The court also reminded the planning bodies of their responsibility to make sure of proper development. It blamed unmonitored growth and poor enforcement of development rules. According to the court, the authorities have failed to fulfil their legal obligations due to a lack of interest and diligence.
The issue was raised by Kishor Shetty in a Public Interest Litigation (PIL), where concerns were voiced about the spread of illegal construction in Navi Mumbai. Rajeev Mishra later filed a contempt suit, pointing out that the 2018 order had not been enforced.
In response, a bench led by Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice Amit Borkar issued a final warning. The court ordered the planning authorities to immediately comply with the 2018 ruling and submit affidavits proving their actions. Failure to do so could result in contempt of court. The court also said it was difficult to accept the authorities' claim that they were taking regular action.
NMMC, in its affidavit, claimed it had partially demolished 3,096 buildings out of 6,565 illegal structures. The affidavit also mentioned concerns about insufficient police support during demolition drives. The corporation said only 28 police officers are available, though the sanctioned strength is 78. Many of these officers are diverted to other duties.
The High Court took note of this issue and asked State Advocate General Birendra Saraf to address the police shortage. The court ordered that the full complement of 78 officers be appointed within three months to provide support for demolition operations.
The next hearing will happen on December 18.
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