Supreme Court Takes Action against LDA Vice-Chairman
The Supreme Court of India, on August 4, issued a contempt notice to the vice-chairman of the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) following a devastating fire at a coaching center in Lucknow, which resulted in the tragic loss of 15 students’ lives. This decision emerged from the case Loganathan v. State of Tamil Nadu.
Judicial Bench Seeks Explanation for Non-Compliance
A judicial bench comprised of Justices Ahsanuddin Amanullah and R Mahadevan demanded an explanation from the LDA. The bench noted a lack of effective measures against violations concerning the sanctioned land use outlined in the city’s Master Plan. “This Court is constrained to issue notice in the contempt proceedings, as it is an admitted position that no effective action has been taken against those who have blatantly violated the sanctioned land use prescribed under the Master Plan,” the Court stated.
Amicus Curiae Highlights Oversights
Senior Advocate Ajit Kumar Sinha, acting as Amicus Curiae, informed the Court that the fire occurred in a building conducting commercial activities unlawfully. Although a demolition order had been issued against the building on May 10, 2016, the order was rescinded on July 5 of the same year due to a technicality. No further action was taken until the unfortunate incident transpired, as reported by Sinha.
Expanding the Scope: Nationwide Implications
This matter initially came to the Court’s attention through an unauthorized construction case in Chennai. While deliberating, the Supreme Court addressed the broader issue of residential areas being repurposed for commercial activities, contravening building and land-use regulations. The proceedings were subsequently expanded to examine these violations nationwide, prompting the Court to request information from state and union territory capitals regarding similar infringements.
Lucknow Development Authority’s Involvement
During the August 4 hearing, it was revealed that the LDA, not originally a party to the proceedings, had submitted an affidavit and an application to be made a party to the case. Consequently, the Court impleaded the LDA through its vice-chairman as a respondent.
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Special Investigation Team’s Findings
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was established following the fire, and its findings have been submitted to the Court. The Supreme Court has directed that this SIT report be presented in a sealed cover at the next hearing.
Next Steps for the LDA Vice-Chairman
The Bench has instructed LDA vice-chairman Prathmesh Kumar, who was present during the proceedings, to attend the next hearing in person. He is required to explain why appropriate orders should not be issued against him for failing to comply with the Court’s directives.
[Read Order]
