The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has received a significant legal victory after a district judge dismissed an appeal challenging the civic body's eviction action for the redevelopment of the Lakadganj fire station. This ruling clears the way for a long-pending public safety project that aims to enhance emergency response infrastructure in East Nagpur.
Court Ruling Details
District Judge MS Ganorkar, while hearing miscellaneous civil appeal number 63 of 2026 filed by businessman AK Parekh through his legal representative Abdul Qayyum, upheld the January 30, 2026 order passed by the deputy municipal commissioner (Estate). The order confirmed the legality of the eviction proceedings initiated by the NMC under Section 81(B)(2) of the Maharashtra Municipal Corporations Act, 1949.
Background of the Dispute
The dispute centers around a 5,851.54-square-metre plot located at Kadbi Tanas Padao in Lakadganj, which has been reserved for the reconstruction and expansion of the fire station. Parekh, who had been operating a business on the premises since 1970, challenged the eviction notice, claiming that his shop was outside the redevelopment zone and alleging a violation of natural justice.
Court Observations
The court observed that the entire reserved land was necessary not only for the fire station building itself but also for essential supporting infrastructure, including access roads, manoeuvring space for fire tenders, parking facilities, and other emergency services. The judgment emphasized that with increasing urbanization and population growth, a fully equipped fire station is essential in the public interest.
Legal Findings
The court further ruled that Parekh's lease had expired in 2014 and was never renewed. It noted that no permanent right could be claimed over municipal land that is reserved for public purposes. The court also rejected allegations of procedural lapses, holding that the appellant was given adequate opportunity to present his case and that the summary inquiry process followed by the NMC was legally valid.
Representation and Impact
Senior advocate SK Mishra and advocate AM Quazi represented the NMC, while legal officers Suraj Paroche and Anand Shende coordinated the case. Civic officials expressed that the ruling would help expedite the crucial redevelopment project, which is aimed at strengthening emergency response infrastructure in East Nagpur.
