In a recent decision, the Bombay High Court has allowed Sateri Builders & Developers LLP to go ahead with a slum redevelopment project in Vile Parle, Mumbai, despite facing many challenges and objections. The court's decision highlights the importance of improving slum areas and the need to get past government and political obstacles.
In November 2020, Sateri Builders was chosen by a group of slum residents to redevelop a plot in Vile Parle under a Slum Rehabilitation Plan. The project faced several problems, including objections from a local MLA and competing developers, leading to legal fights.
"The main goal of the Slums Act is to make sure that slum residents are not kicked out without a new place to live and are provided with decent, secure, and clean housing."
The project's approval was questioned by some slum residents and rival developers. They claimed that the plan left out certain areas and didn't get the necessary permissions. The main complaints committee initially canceled the project's approval, but the High Court later brought it back, a decision supported by the Supreme Court.
The court, led by Judges G.S. Kulkarni and Arif S. Doctor, decided in favor of Sateri Builders. They told the city authorities to finish the necessary paperwork and give a start certificate, allowing the project to proceed.
"The second and third respondents are instructed to give the Start Certificate to Sateri Builders for the rehabilitation part of their plan."
The court noticed possible political interference, which had slowed down the project. They stressed that the well-being of slum residents should be more important than the competing interests of developers.
The court required Sateri Builders to follow rules and make sure that displaced people are included in the rehabilitation plan. The city corporation was tasked with completing the necessary steps within a specified time.
"The Respondents are directed to take all necessary steps, including carrying out eviction orders, for the smooth implementation of Sateri Builders’ slum rehabilitation plan."
This decision is a big step towards better living conditions for slum residents, showing the importance of following welfare laws and overcoming government challenges. The court's ruling supports the idea of development while reminding authorities of their duty to prioritize public welfare over private interests.
