Punjab Government Revokes CLU for Mohali Developer Over Forged Documents in Sector 102
Punjab authorities have made a strong decision that has sent ripples through Mohali's real estate market. They have cancelled a part of the Change of Land Use (CLU) permission granted to a developer due to forged documents linked to an industrial colony project in Sector 102.
What Sparked the CLU Cancellation?
It all began with a complaint from a resident. Surinder Kaur from Drari village raised concerns in April 2022. She alleged that her land was included in the project using fake consent letters and a counterfeit bank NOC. Officials conducted an investigation, held hearings, and confirmed the forgery. As a result, they revoked the CLU for 9 kanals 15 marlas, roughly 1.3 acres, from the villages of Drari and Dhurali.
This project, led by Sunny Lovely Developers Private Limited under Sukhdev Bajwa, had previously received full CLU approvals: 51.4 acres in August 2018 and an additional 5.13 acres in January 2019. The layout plan was approved in October 2019 under the Industrial Park Policy. Now, that portion is lost, affecting industrial plots 1-8, 12-16, 19-111, SCO sites in Pocket-1, and more.
Investors Left in the Lurch
Approximately 200 plot holders invested Rs 250 crore six years ago. They are still waiting for possession, without sewers or power lines in sight. Baljeet Singh, representing the Sunny Lovely Plot Holders Association, expresses his frustration. "We’re in a difficult situation now," he states. They are advocating for either a GMADA takeover or association management.
- Key investor woes:
- No basic infrastructure even after years.
- Substantial investments made without any returns.
- Waiting for government action.
- Project delays jeopardise financial health.
Developer Sukhdev Bajwa, the son of Jarnail Singh Bajwa and facing multiple cheating allegations, has remained silent despite attempts to reach out.
Broader Signals for Punjab Real Estate
This situation is not an isolated incident. Punjab is increasing its scrutiny of land transactions. Recent changes now require 100% title ownership for CLU, upfront EDC payments, and bank guarantees. Defaults could prevent further approvals. Incidents like this one send a clear message to developers: operate honestly or risk losing approvals.
Stricter regulations might slow down industrial approvals in Mohali. Buyers should be cautious, verify documents and check approvals. For developers, following the rules is essential as policies continue to change.
Lessons for Buyers and Builders
It’s important to stay vigilant in unpredictable markets like Mohali. Here’s how:
- Verify the validity of CLU and ownership documents.
- Request timelines for infrastructure development.
- Join associations to strengthen collective advocacy.
- Keep an eye on new updates from the Authority.
This revocation alters the landscape of trust regarding projects in Sector 102. It demands transparency, safeguarding investments while reducing unethical practices. Mohali's industrial advancement is now in a precarious position, everyone is watching for the next steps.