The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has firmly decided to commence the demolition of the illegal flats within the Campa Cola compound after May 31 of the following year, regardless of the arrival of the monsoon season in India. Meanwhile, the residents are diligently exploring any available legal recourse before the impending demolition date.
Following the expiration of the May 2014 deadline, the Supreme Court of India authorized the municipal body to proceed with the demolition of the unauthorized constructions in south Mumbai. The highest court in the country directed the residents to submit their written commitments, within a period of six weeks, affirming their intention to vacate the apartments before the stipulated deadline.
According to the BMC, the corporation will initiate the demolition of buildings belonging to those residents who have failed to submit the required undertaking from January 1 onward. The remaining flats are scheduled for demolition after June 1.
The residents harbored hopes that the demolition would be postponed due to the onset of the monsoon season. However, the BMC stands prepared to initiate the demolition process from June 1, as the action is mandated by the Supreme Court's order.
With the Supreme Court's ruling, there is mounting pressure on the state government to enact an ordinance to safeguard the illegal flats. Several politicians have appealed to the Chief Minister to reconsider the situation; however, he has categorically dismissed the possibility of implementing any ordinance.
When the inhabitants of Campa Cola appealed to the Chief Minister, they received no assurances. Consequently, the society members are preparing to take legal action. The residents intend to question how the municipal body plans to demolish the upper 12-15 floors without jeopardizing the legally constructed floors below.
Additionally, the members are contemplating filing a corrective petition with the Supreme Court.