Haryana RERA Slaps Vatika Ltd with Rs 62.4 Lakh Compensation Order for Delayed Plot
In a significant ruling, the Haryana Real Estate Regulatory Authority (HRera) has mandated real estate developer Vatika Ltd to pay a compensation of Rs 62.4 lakh to a homebuyer couple for failing to deliver a residential plot within the agreed timeline. The order, issued on April 7, 2026, highlights the authority's strict enforcement of consumer protection laws in the real estate sector.
Details of the Homebuyer Case and Project Delays
The complainants, Vinay Kumar and Shalini Kumari, booked a 240-square-yard residential plot in Vatika Ltd's project 'Vatika India Next' located in Sector 85, Gurgaon, back in 2010. The total consideration for the unit was Rs 62.7 lakh, with possession contractually promised by July 27, 2013. However, the authority's investigation revealed that the allotted unit was not part of the approved layout plan, and no development had occurred at the site even after more than a decade.
HRera's adjudicating officer relied on documented findings, including a site assessment, which confirmed that the specific plot was unavailable in the approved layout. Based on this, the authority held that Vatika Ltd had failed to fulfil its obligations under the sale agreement. The option of offering an alternative unit was deemed unfeasible in this case, leading to the decision to allow the buyers to withdraw from the project.
Compensation Breakdown and Regulatory Implications
The compensation granted by HRera includes the full amount paid by the homebuyers, along with an additional Rs 2 lakh for mental agony and litigation costs. The order also mandates an interest rate of 10.8% on the total compensation until payment is realised. This relief is strictly in accordance with the statutory framework governing delayed possession and non-compliance by promoters under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (Rera).
The ruling underscores HRera's regulatory mandate in adjudicating disputes between homebuyers and developers, particularly in cases involving delays in possession and deviations from approved project plans. It serves as a reminder of the legal recourse available to consumers facing similar issues in the real estate market.
Despite repeated attempts by The Times of India to seek a comment, the spokesperson for Vatika Ltd did not respond to inquiries regarding the order. This case adds to the growing list of instances where regulatory bodies are taking stringent action to protect homebuyer rights and ensure accountability in the real estate industry.
