Legal dispute regarding the termination of a developer's appointment for implementing a Slum Rehabilitation Scheme (SRS) in Mumbai under the Maharashtra Slum Areas Act. The petitioner, a developer, challenges the orders of the Apex Grievance Redressal Committee (AGRC) and the Chief Executive Officer of the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (CEO/SRA) to terminate their appointment.
The implementation of a Slum Rehabilitation Scheme (SRS) under the Slum Act. It discusses the jurisdiction of the Competent Authority, the appointment and termination of developers, and disputes regarding the allocation of land and slum structures. The court scrutinizes various documents and proceedings to determine the validity of the petitioner's claims and actions. Ultimately, the court dismisses the petition, finding the petitioner's conduct fallacious and ordering costs to be paid to Tata Memorial Hospital.
Background of the Dispute:
The petitioner was appointed by a slum society to implement the SRS on a specific plot of land.
There were disputes within the society regarding the appointment, leading to termination proceedings against the petitioner.
Arguments of the Petitioner's Counsel:
Challenges the authority of individuals within the society to seek termination of the petitioner's appointment.
Highlights the petitioner's efforts and challenges in implementing the SRS, including issues with land ownership and overlapping surveys.
Contends that the termination was unjustified and lacked proper consideration of the circumstances.
Arguments of Respondent No.3 - Society:
Presents opposing views within the society, with different representatives supporting and opposing the petitioner's termination.
Alleges that the petitioner deliberately delayed the project to expand its scope and incorporate additional land portions into the scheme.
Raises concerns about the petitioner's actions and involvement in disputes with other developers.
Arguments of Respondent Nos.1 and 2 - Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA):
Supports the termination of the petitioner's appointment based on the facts presented by the CEO/SRA.
Asserts that the petitioner failed to fulfill obligations and caused delays in the project.
Judicial Consideration:
Recognizes the confusion regarding representation within the slum society, which is common in such cases.
Emphasizes the importance of clarifying the land allocation to determine the merit of the petitioner's claims.
Refers to legal precedents regarding the authority of the Competent Authority to terminate a developer's appointment under the Slum Act.
Interpretation of Legal Provisions:
Examines Section 13(2) of the Slum Act, which empowers the Competent Authority to intervene if there are violations or delays in project implementation.
Considers the Apex Court's interpretation of the Slum Act provisions and the authority of the SRA in such matters.
Jurisdiction of the Competent Authority:
The Competent Authority has the jurisdiction to take necessary steps for SRS implementation.
CEO/SRA's power to initiate action under Section 13(2) is affirmed.
Dispute Over Land and Structures:
Petitioner claims acceptance of the SRS proposal for multiple portions of land.
Dispute arises over the exact land and number of slum structures approved for the scheme.
Appointment of Developer:
Hridaya initially appointed for a larger scheme, terminated in favor of the petitioner for a specific portion of land.
Resolution for petitioner's appointment made in a General Body Meeting.
Termination of Petitioner's Appointment:
CEO/SRA and AGRC terminate petitioner's appointment due to lack of progress and opposition from other parties.
Petitioner accused of seeking additional rights in adjoining slums, leading to termination.
Delay in Implementation:
Petitioner's delay in commencing construction despite several years since appointment.
Court references a similar case emphasizing the importance of timely implementation.
Conclusion:
Concludes that the petition raises significant issues regarding representation and land allocation.
Suggests a need for further investigation to clarify these matters before reaching a decision on the petitioner's termination.
Court's Decision and Consequences:
Court dismisses the petition, finding petitioner's claims fallacious and ordering costs to Tata Memorial Hospital.
Interim relief request denied based on reasons outlined in the judgment.
legal dispute involving multiple parties and legal interpretations regarding the termination of a developer's appointment for a Slum Rehabilitation Scheme.
Case Title: M/s. Lashkaria Housing & Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd. } Versus : 1. Slum Rehabilitation Authority 2. Chief Executive Ofcer 3. Sarvodaya Residence SRA CHS (Proposed) 4. Apex Grievance Redressal Committee
Citation: 2024 Lawtext (BOM) (5) 105
Case Number: WRIT PETITION NO.(L) NO. 12949 OF 2024
Advocate(s): Mr. Mayur Khandeparkar, with Mr. Santosh Pathak, Mr. Chirag Thakkar and Mr. Kailash Pathak, for the Petitioner. Mr. Jagdish G. Aradwad (Reddy) for Respondent Nos.1 and 2. Mr. Cherag Balsara i/by. Mr. Milind Nar, for Respondent No.3. Ms. Uroosa Shaikh i/by. Mr. Anup Patil for AGRC, Respondent No.4. Mr. Amogh Singh with Ms. Priya Chaturvedi i/by. Mr. Nimish Lotlikar for Applicant in IAL-15499 of 2024.
Date of Decision: 2024-05-10