Karnataka High Court Orders Demolition of Unauthorized Floors at IBC Platinum City
The Karnataka High Court has mandated the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) to demolish the unauthorized 14th and 15th floors of a residential tower in IBC Platinum City, Peenya, Bengaluru. These floors were constructed without legal approval and have been embroiled in a legal dispute since 2013. The residential complex spans 34 acres and houses over 2,500 units, with the disputed floors valued at ₹3-5 crore per unit. Despite ongoing litigation, the floors remain occupied by residents.
The court's ruling followed Sheriff Construction's failure to fulfill its promise to self-demolish the unauthorized structures. These floors are part of one of the eight apartment blocks in the township, highlighting significant deviations from sanctioned building plans.
Court's Ruling
On November 25, 2024, the Karnataka High Court directed the BDA to draft a detailed plan for the eviction and demolition of the entire unauthorized structure to bring the development into compliance with existing building by-laws. This directive underscores the court's commitment to ensuring strict adherence to urban planning regulations.
The court has also stipulated that any financial losses incurred by the affected buyers must be compensated by the developer, based on the market value of the apartments at the time of demolition. The next hearing on this matter is scheduled for December 11, 2024.
Impact on Residents
The ruling places the residents of the unauthorized floors in a precarious position, with potential displacement and financial repercussions looming. Many of the occupants may have invested their life savings in these units, only to face eviction due to regulatory non-compliance by the developer. Legal experts highlight that while the situation is unfortunate for buyers, adherence to building regulations is paramount to maintain urban development integrity and prevent future violations.
Significance of the Ruling
The Karnataka High Court's decision to demolish unauthorized floors in IBC Platinum City highlights a pressing issue within Bengaluru's real estate sector—unauthorized constructions that compromise safety, legality, and buyer confidence. By enforcing stringent regulations, the court has sent a strong message to developers who disregard building norms, emphasizing the need for effective oversight in urban planning.
Moreover, the court's directive for developers to compensate buyers for their financial losses sets a significant precedent, reinforcing that developers must adhere to legal requirements to protect consumers and uphold market integrity. This ruling not only safeguards Bengaluru’s urban development framework but also serves as a reminder for all stakeholders in the real estate industry to prioritize compliance, transparency, and accountability for a sustainable, trustworthy market.
