Ranchi/Jamshedpur: In a significant crackdown on unauthorized urban development, the bench of Chief Justice M.S. Sonak and Justice Rajesh Shankar of the Jharkhand High Court has dismissed multiple petitions filed against the demolition of illegal buildings in Jamshedpur. The court took a stern stance, warning that any future petitioners seeking to protect illegal structures without valid documentation would face heavy fines.
High Court’s Observations on Public Welfare
The court emphasized that illegal constructions violate the rights of law-abiding citizens, stating that these structures deprive neighbors of essential sunlight and water.
- Lack of Evidence: The bench noted that none of the petitioners provided documents proving their constructions followed approved regulations.
- Impact on Society: The court remarked that “the lives of honest people are being ruined,” and judicial relief cannot be granted to those who bypass the law.
- The Only Option: Following a report from a committee of advocates appointed by the High Court, the bench concluded that demolition is the only viable solution for these violations.
JNAC Under Fire for Collusion
The court issued a sharp reprimand to the Jamshedpur Notified Area Committee (JNAC), accusing the body of “active collusion” or “gross inaction” that allowed such large-scale illegalities to flourish.
- Deadline: JNAC has been ordered to demolish 24 specific illegal buildings by March 9 and file a compliance affidavit.
- Accountability: The Secretary of Urban Development, the Deputy Commissioner of Jamshedpur, and the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) have been held personally responsible for providing the necessary support to ensure the demolition order is carried out.
Background of the Case
The order follows a PIL filed by Rakesh Kumar Jha, represented by advocate Akhilesh Srivastava. A three-member committee of advocates previously inspected the sites and confirmed that the buildings did not comply with building bylaws. The committee highlighted that the lack of effective monitoring by authorities has forced honest citizens to suffer.
The High Court cited Supreme Court precedents, stating that the time for showing leniency toward illegal constructions is over, and authorities failing in their duties must also be held accountable.
