Residents Defy Eviction Deadline at Campa Cola Compound
The residents of the disputed Campa Cola housing complex have defied the Supreme Court's mandated deadline to vacate their apartments. As civic and police officials arrived to commence the demolition process, they were met with locked gates and determined resistance from the residents, who refused to leave their homes.
Residents Barricade Compound, Blocking Access
Residents parked vehicles strategically in front of the main gate, effectively barricading the compound and preventing officials from entering. This act of defiance further escalated the tension surrounding the impending demolition.
Demolition Preparations Underway Amidst Standoff
Despite the residents' resistance, the civic body has positioned demolition vehicles on-site and was prepared to disconnect essential utilities, including power and water supply to the housing units. Furthermore, a Mahanagar Gas Ltd. van was present, poised to cut off the CNG supply to the complex.
State Government's Inaction Fuels Residents' Hopes
The Supreme Court had set November 11 as the ultimate deadline for residents to vacate the premises. The families residing within the complex had clung to the hope that the state government would intervene on their behalf. They anticipated an order legalizing their apartments, effectively saving their homes. However, the state government has exhibited no indication of yielding to the residents' pleas or challenging the advocate general's position.
Civic Body Issues Notices to Residents
In anticipation of potential resistance, the civic body issued eviction notices last week under section 488 to residents of the illegal floors. These notices warned against obstructing the municipal authorities during the demolition process.
A Long-Standing Legal Battle Continues
The residents of Campa Cola have been engaged in a protracted legal dispute with the civic body since 2005. Their initial court action sought water connections and other essential amenities. The lower court directed the then-municipal commissioner to implement time-bound action against the builder. However, the top civic official, instead of proceeding against the developer, issued demolition notices for approximately 100 flats situated above the fifth floor. The builders had obtained approval for the construction of towers up to five floors but disregarded these regulations, leading to the current predicament.