Patna: The Patna Municipal Corporation has issued a notice to mayor Sita Sahu over the alleged unauthorised non-residential use of residential premises in the city.
The notice was issued by the executive officer of the corporation’s Azimabad zone in compliance with a Supreme Court order. Notices have also been served on Sahu’s two sons, Shishir Kumar and Sushant Kumar, who are associated with the premises.
Shishir Kumar said the property in question was being used solely for residential purposes.
26,746 Properties Identified
The municipal corporation’s survey has identified 26,746 instances of residential properties allegedly being used for non-residential or commercial purposes.
Following the Supreme Court’s directions, the corporation conducted a ward-wise survey across its zones. Landowners, builders, developers and occupants of the identified properties are being given an opportunity to present their cases.
Notices have been issued to the concerned parties, with hearings scheduled on different dates at the respective zonal offices.
The corporation said property owners and occupants are required to submit relevant documents and their responses before any action is taken.
Documents Sought From Mayor
The notice issued to Sahu on July 8 states that non-residential activities or use were found at the premises.
The corporation has sought documents including evidence of the permitted non-residential use, such as a No Objection Certificate, proof of land ownership, the approved building plan and the occupancy certificate.
The notice also asks Sahu to explain why action, including closure, sealing or demolition, should not be taken if the alleged non-residential use is found to be illegal.
It states that failure to submit a response and the required documents within the stipulated period could result in the corporation proceeding on the assumption that the concerned party has no defence.
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Building Use Must Follow Approved Plan
Under municipal regulations, building plans must be approved before construction begins and must comply with the designated land use and applicable building bylaws.
Construction is required to follow the approved plan, while the subsequent use of the building must also conform to the permitted land use and approved plan.
The corporation can take action where violations of these provisions are established.
Councillor Questions Zoning Clarity
Vinay Kumar Pappu, councillor for Ward 28, questioned the issuance of notices without what he described as a clear definition of residential and commercial zones.
He called for an immediate halt to such action and demanded a formal survey, demarcation and notification of residential and commercial areas across the municipal limits.
Pappu also sought public disclosure of areas officially designated as residential zones.
He called for a review of tax assessments for properties from which the corporation has been collecting commercial taxes for years, arguing that the issue should be examined alongside the action against alleged commercial use of residential properties.
He said that, in implementing the Supreme Court’s directions, property owners and business operators should receive clear information and a fair opportunity to present their cases before any coercive action is taken.
