New Delhi: In light of consistent criticism regarding its flawed wrong address policy, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has taken decisive action by issuing a formal notice to its senior officials, urging them to exhibit greater diligence when finalizing applications. This governmental body has instructed its officials to directly approach the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) if any form of misconduct is discovered during the selection process.
The notice outlines a fresh set of protocols for handling claims that arise under the problematic wrong address policy.
The DDA originally formulated this policy in November 2002 following a significant Delhi High Court ruling that determined all instances where allotment letters were sent to incorrect addresses, despite changes having been communicated by the allottee, led to cancellations. It was mandated that the allottee should receive a flat at the original price at the designated location, with no interest being incurred. However, ever since, the DDA has faced a deluge of controversies related to allotments generated through this policy.
Various allottees have accused the authority of failing to provide them with flats despite them having submitted all requisite documentation. Additionally, numerous allegations of corruption and dealer involvement have been levied against the authority.
The most recent controversy arose in July when it was alleged that crores were improperly drawn during the allotment process of 150 flats at outdated prices from 10 to 15 years ago, while the flats were advertised at current market rates. Following these claims, the CBI launched an investigation and has filed three separate cases. Furthermore, multiple legal actions have been initiated against the DDA for not allotting properties to original owners after they submitted all necessary documents.
The newly issued notice requires officials to carry out document verification of claimants through a forensic lab to ensure accuracy and legitimacy. Moreover, the DDA has mandated that once flats are allotted, they cannot be placed for sale within five years of their assignment.