Overview

• Justices J.B. Pardiwala and K.V. Viswanathan asked the Calcutta High Court to ensure each unauthorised structure across Kolkata is addressed in accordance with law.
• The Supreme Court dismissed a builder’s challenge to a Calcutta High Court order, endorsing demolition of unauthorised portions in a Howrah building after a Zilla Parishad inquiry found deliberate deviations.
• The bench reminded states of its December 2024 directions that bar regularisation, require builder undertakings, mandate inspections, and call for denial of utilities and bank loans without valid OCs.
• Notice was issued to the Odisha government on compliance with the December 2024 framework, with the court stressing deterrence and reduced litigation through strict adherence.
• The Bombay High Court, citing strain on scarce civic resources, said rights of occupants of illegal structures cannot be recognised and pressed for proactive municipal vigilance and policy revamps, as seen in the Vartak Nagar case.