KDMC Puts Demolition of Illegal Dombivli Building on Hold After Shinde's Intervention
The Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) has officially stayed the High Court-ordered demolition of an illegal seven-storey building in Dombivli, following the reported intervention of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. This decision offers immediate relief to approximately 150 residents who were facing displacement due to the impending demolition action.
Background of the Illegal Construction
The building in question, known as Samarth Complex, is part of a larger group of 65 structures that were constructed using forged approvals and fake MahaRERA registrations. The Bombay High Court had previously ordered the demolition of all these illegal buildings, citing serious violations of construction norms and regulatory protocols. Last week, the KDMC issued a formal demolition notice to Samarth Complex, setting the stage for its imminent razing.
Political Intervention and Relief Measures
Following desperate pleas from the affected residents, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde reportedly contacted KDMC Commissioner Abhinav Goel late on Sunday evening to discuss potential relief measures. This high-level intervention led to the municipal corporation deciding to put the demolition proceedings on hold temporarily. The move is seen as a significant step to address the humanitarian concerns of the residents while navigating the legal complexities of the case.
Broader Implications and Political Response
Kalyan Rural MLA Rajesh More has announced that he will raise the issue of protecting residents from all 65 illegal buildings during the ongoing state legislative assembly session. This highlights the broader political and social dimensions of the case, as many similar structures across the region face demolition orders. The situation underscores the challenges of illegal construction in urban areas and the need for balanced solutions that consider both legal compliance and resident welfare.
The KDMC's decision to stay the demolition is a temporary measure, and further actions will depend on ongoing discussions and potential policy interventions. Residents of Samarth Complex have expressed relief but remain anxious about the long-term resolution of their housing situation.
