Builder Booked for Delayed Possession and Fraud
Case Details
- Location: Kondhwa, Pune
- Accused: 2 Mumbai builders and their 9 partners
- Charges: Violations under Maharashtra Ownership Flats Act, Maharashtra Regional Town Planning Act, Maharashtra Apartment Ownership Rules, and cheating and forgery sections of the Indian Penal Code
On Saturday, the Kondhwa police filed a case against two Mumbai-based builders and their nine partners for allegedly withholding money from buyers while failing to deliver apartment keys within the committed timeframe. This marks the second crime registered against a builder under the Maharashtra Ownership Flats Act (MOFA).
Background of the Case
- Complainant: Mahavir Pawar, a resident of Balajinagar
- Complaint Against: Builders in Tilekagarnagar, Kondhwa
- Issue: Delayed possession of Pawar's flat, despite making payments and obtaining a bank loan
Pawar shared his ordeal, highlighting the challenges he faced in lodging the complaint. He expressed gratitude to Praveen Dixit, State Director-General of Police, whose mediation facilitated the booking of the complaint.
Concerns Raised by Homebuyers
- Delayed Possession: Pawar, who has already sold his previous flat in Balajinagar and secured a loan for the new apartment, is now facing the burden of paying EMIs and rent for his current residence.
- Harassment by Builders: Even those who have taken possession of their apartments are being harassed, with demands for extra charges, including water tankers and an additional Rs 1.5 lakh.
- Supplementary Agreement Issues: Homebuyers are being pressured to sign supplementary agreements without being allowed to review them outside the premises.
- Scheme Name Changes: Pawar also pointed out that the scheme's name was altered after he booked his flat, adding to the confusion and mistrust among homebuyers.
Police Response
- Offense Booked: On Saturday, the police booked the offense under MOFA, as confirmed by Senior Inspector of the Kondhwa police station, Satish Govekar.
- Investigation Status: Govekar assured that the inquiry has been initiated.