The Mumbai Enforcement Directorate (ED) searched thirteen locations in Vasai and Virar linked to builders involved in constructing 41 illegal buildings on a 60-acre plot earmarked for public projects. These premises were connected to those responsible for unauthorised constructions in the Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation (VVMC) area.

The 41 illegal buildings were demolished by VVMC over twenty-two days earlier this year following Bombay High Court orders. The ED’s probe began after multiple first information reports by the Mira-Bhayandar police related to the illegal constructions.

The ED found that large-scale unauthorised construction started in 2009, with forged approvals and fake agreements used to sell units to vulnerable buyers. The Supreme Court refused relief to displaced residents, noting the site was meant for public use and constructions lacked permission.

In September 2023, a former Vasai corporator, S Gupta, was arrested for allegedly grabbing the land. His residence was among those searched. Gupta and others face accusations of using forged ownership documents and illegally selling the land.

Source:Hindustan Times