The Calcutta High Court on Wednesday doubled a fine of Rs one lakh to Rs two lakh on a promoter for failing to pay the cost imposed on him for constructing an unauthorised three-storeyed building in Calcutta.
On March 12, the court denied a writ petition filed by the developer of the structure, which sought regularization of the unauthorized three-story residence in the Nandibagan area of the 106th ward of south Calcutta.
Justice Amrita Sinha stated that since there was no stay on her previous order by the division bench, she would be increasing the cost imposed. She noted that the petitioner had been directed to pay the cost of Rs one lakh imposed on him by March 18 and had not done so, claiming that he had moved the division bench of the court appealing against her order.
Justice Sinha ordered that the petitioner pay the additional expense by March 22nd, raising it from Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 2 lakh.
The court stated ,”The persons involved in unauthorised constructions should be given a good lesson so that these can be curbed.”
Justice Sinha said that the court does not see any reason for extending the time period for payment of the cost as was prayed for by the petitioner, which was to be done by March 18. According to Justice Sinha, there is no justification for the court to prolong the deadline for the petitioner’s requested extension of time to pay the fee, which was supposed to be completed by March 18.
The court said that the order for payment of higher costs may be further augmented if it is not paid within the allotted period.
On March 12, the petitioner received notice to cease building development since it was proceeding without authorization, according to a submission made to the court by the KMC’s legal representative.
After paying the necessary costs, the petitioner builder had addressed the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) to request regularization of the construction.
According to Justice Sinha’s Order dated March 12, the KMC commissioner need to provide appropriate advice to the engineers of each borough within the corporation, ensuring that a frequent watch is kept out for any new building.
The court has directed, “If it is found that the said construction is without sanction, then immediate action should be taken to deal with the same in accordance with law.”