BHUBANESWAR: The Supreme Court has summoned the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) to explain the controversial occupancy certificate (OC) issued for Odisha’s first public-private partnership (PPP) real estate project.
The project, initiated by the Odisha State Housing Board (OSHB), is currently facing legal and regulatory issues that raise serious questions about compliance and governance in the state’s real estate landscape.
As per the case details, the project has been embroiled in a lengthy legal battle due to alleged fraudulent activities and regulatory failures. A timeline of events shows numerous missteps and disputes.
In 2018, the builder started handing over possession without an OC, leading Odisha RERA to intervene and halt the process. A year later, BDA issued a partial OC for specific towers, enabling possession for some buyers.
However, a full OC was controversially granted in 2020, despite construction being incomplete, which prompted protests from buyers. In 2021, BDA revoked the OC for the entire project, a decision the builder contested in the Orissa High Court.
Subsequently, the high court instructed the builder to resolve outstanding issues with BDA. The Supreme Court’s latest demand calls for accountability from BDA.
The next hearing is set for November 7, with further developments expected. A senior BDA official stated, “We will investigate the matter and respond to the apex court accordingly.”
“The project lacks essential utilities, including adequate drainage and sewerage systems, leading to untreated water being discharged onto adjacent government land,” the official noted.
Bimalendu Pradhan, a buyer and real estate expert, remarked, “Allegations have emerged against the former OSHB chairman for allegedly overlooking buyer concerns for personal gain.”
He further highlighted the regulatory issues facing Odisha’s real estate sector, noting that out of 2,200 approved projects, only 200 OCs have been issued, with many constructions lacking authorization.
“The Supreme Court’s intervention underscores the pressing need for stricter enforcement to protect home buyers’ rights,” he added.
Experts have called on authorities to prioritize buyer protection over builder interests and ensure accountability. “The fraudulent issuance of OCs must be addressed, and builders who fail to secure OCs should face restrictions on future projects until they fulfill their obligations,” they cautioned.
