KOLKATA: Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has urged the Kolkata Municipal Corporation’s buildings department to avoid rushing into demolitions without prior notification, allowing those affected adequate time to defend their cases.
During an interactive session with various municipal officials on Saturday evening, Adhikari underscored the need for careful consideration when addressing illegal constructions in the city.
The Chief Minister advised KMC’s senior buildings officials to approach the demolition of structures inhabited by economically disadvantaged individuals cautiously, particularly where residents have purchased flats or built homes that do not significantly breach KMC regulations.
Adhikari expressed his concerns in a meeting after the Calcutta High Court instructed the civic body to adhere to proper legal procedures before issuing demolition notices.
According to a KMC official, the discussion with the Chief Minister has been crucial in shaping policies regarding illegally constructed buildings and their enforcement. “Our conversation with the Chief Minister was valuable, as we gained clarity on the state’s stance regarding unauthorized buildings,” said a civic official.
The KMC buildings department official explained that the department typically provides residents with notice and an opportunity to present their case before a hearing officer. “If minor deviations are found and there’s no intent to conceal substantial rule violations, we often allow for the regularization of the building to protect its inhabitants,” the official noted. Following the Chief Minister’s recommendations, the KMC buildings department plans to exercise greater caution regarding demolitions.
