The Supreme Court of India has taken a strong stance against widespread unauthorized construction and illegal commercial operations operating in residential areas across the country. A division bench comprising Justice Ahsanuddin Amanullah and Justice R. Mahadevan has directed authorities in major cities—including Delhi, Patna, and Lucknow—to initiate strict, large-scale drives against non-compliant structures. The apex court’s directive follows tragic fire incidents at a Delhi hotel and a Lucknow coaching center, which resulted in multiple fatalities due to structural and safety violations. Key City-Wise Actions and Directives 1. Delhi: MCD and NDMC Reprimanded Over Survey Delays The court expressed strong displeasure with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) for failing to begin safety surveys in heavily crowded commercial hubs like Lajpat Nagar and Sarojini Nagar. Committee Mandate: The court had previously ordered the formation of a safety assessment committee involving two IIT-Delhi professors to inspect structural integrity and regulatory compliance, a directive that remains unfulfilled. 2. Patna: Show-Cause Notice Issued to Former Municipal Commissioner A fresh affidavit submitted by the Patna Municipal Corporation revealed 26,746 cases where residential properties were illegally converted for commercial use. Judicial Observation: The bench noted that the figure highlights severe oversight by municipal authorities prior to the court’s intervention. Show-Cause Notice: The court issued a formal show-cause notice to former Patna Municipal Commissioner Anupam Kumar Parashar, questioning why disciplinary action should not be initiated against him for negligence during his nearly four-year tenure. 3. Lucknow: LDA Directs Three-Week Action Plan The Supreme Court instructed the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) to conduct a comprehensive survey targeting unauthorized structures and illegal commercial activities in residential sectors. Initial Enforcement: LDA Vice-Chairman Prathamesh Kumar informed the court that 51 non-compliant properties have already been identified for immediate enforcement action. Timeline: The LDA committed to completing field inspections and follow-up procedures across its jurisdiction within three weeks. Key Takeaway: The Supreme Court’s mandate signals a nationwide regulatory push to enforce strict building safety norms, seal illegal operations, and hold civic officials accountable for administrative negligence. Post navigation Stolen Jewelry from Bank Lockers: Who Pays and How Much Can You Recover? Strengthening El Niño and Neutral IOD Raise Concerns for Indian Monsoon
