Delhi HC Orders DDA to Assist CBI in Housing Lapses Probe

13 Dec 2024 CW Team

The Delhi High Court has instructed the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to fully cooperate with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in its probe into alleged lapses in the construction of 336 high-rise HIG/MIG houses at Signature View Apartments, north Delhi.

Justice Chandra Dhari Singh emphasized that DDA must furnish information about any internal inquiry and the officials involved to facilitate the investigation. The court noted CBI’s submission that DDA had not responded to multiple reminders since July, delaying the probe.

The CBI is investigating allegations of "cheating, criminal breach of trust, and endangering life" under the Prevention of Corruption Act. The case was initiated last year following directions from the lieutenant governor to probe contractors, testing agencies, DDA officials, and other unknown persons.

Court Orders Timely Compliance HC directed DDA to cooperate fully upon receiving a notice from CBI and provide prosecution sanctions under Section 17A of the PC Act if internal inquiries implicate officials. DDA’s counsel assured the court that all necessary materials would be supplied.

Residents Await Redevelopment Clarity Residents of the structurally unsound Signature View Apartments, declared unsafe by an IIT report, remain in limbo. Despite the LG's instructions in January 2023 to "vacate, dismantle, and rebuild the towers," redevelopment has stalled due to ongoing litigation and delayed verdicts.

Amarendra Rakesh, president of the residents' welfare association (RWA), highlighted the financial and safety struggles of displaced residents. "People who moved out expecting redevelopment now offer their flats on rent. Paying both rent and EMIs is unsustainable," he said, adding that incidents of plaster falling continue to pose risks.

With the court reserving its redevelopment verdict since August 12, residents are keenly awaiting progress.

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