HC seeks clarification on reserved land used for commercial gains
Mr Nizam argued that as the plot was not auctioned, the state government was deprived of valuable revenues.
Mumbai: The Bombay high court has sought replies from various authorities including the City and Industrial Development Corporation (Cidco) and state government regarding the allotment of a plot that was reserved for media activities for construction of a residential complex. The questions were prompted after the petitioner alleged that a huge amount of land measuring nearly 30 acres that was reserved for setting up media organisations was spuriously given away for a plush residential complex. A division bench headed by Justice Ranjeet More was hearing a writ petition filed by an activist through advocate Tanveer Nizam regarding the wrongful allotment of a Rs 300 crore plot at Vashi for a commercial and residential project while it was meant for the press.
“A prime plot worth Rs 300 crore in Vashi reserved for only press activity was given to Gaukari Parakashan, Nashik. This was later, without authority given away for redevelopment to Fine Arts Construction and Development. No proceeds went to the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) or CIDCO, said that petition.
Mr Nizam argued that as the plot was not auctioned, the state government was deprived of valuable revenues. He submitted that flats were sold to eminent personalities like doctors, businessmen and politicians.
As various parties like Cidco, NMMC, the state and others sought time to submit their replies, the HC has issued notices to all parties and has also allowed amendment to add parties like the builder and the society and posted the matter for hearing after vacations.