Mumbai: Maharashtra State Assembly legislator Vinod Tawde praised the Supreme Court of India's verdict, which stayed the demolition of illegal flats in Campa Cola Housing Society, South Mumbai, until May 31, 2014.
The state government is acting like a dictator and trying to save itself, according to the legislator.
NCP leader Tariq Anwar also welcomed the order, stating that the innocent public is suffering due to political ties in the country. He called for the formulation of proper rules to prevent such acts in the future.
The minister added that there is a need for new construction rules to ensure that innocent people do not suffer.
Another NCP leader, DP Tripathi, advocated for a balanced solution and suggested that the issue should be resolved through talks between the government and the residents.
The views of the regulatory class came after the apex court stayed the demolition of illegal flats, taking notice from several media reports.
Celebration at Campa Cola
After the verdict, scenes of euphoria and bursting firecrackers were seen in the premises of Campa Cola. Before the order, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) officials had bulldozed their way inside the compound by breaking open the gate to gain access, despite residents trying to block the entrance.
The apex court ordered officials of the civic body not to proceed with the demolition until May 31, 2014.
Residents' Reactions
Residents were enraged and pleading for help before the apex court's verdict came as a relief for them.
Government's Response
With increasing pressure on the State Government, Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan sought legal help from the attorney general to save the homes.
The residents have declined to move out of the compound, even as the deadline given by the Supreme Court to vacate the flats has ended.
BMC's Decision
The civic body decided to bring down 35 illegal floors in the seven high-rises in the compound after the Supreme Court refused to regularize them.