Electoral Rolls and the Foundations of Democracy: Reflections on the Supreme Court’s 2025 Judgment
INTRODUCTORY REMARKS: The Supreme Court of India’s 2025 judgment in Association for Democratic Reforms v. Election Commission of India begins not with procedural technicalities, but with a profound constitutional question: who constitutes the political community of a democracy? Before a state can count votes, the Court observes, it must first determine whose votes are entitled to be counted. In this framing, the electoral roll emerges not as a routine administrative document, but as the legal foundation of representative government itself. Chief Justice Surya Kant, writing for the Court, situates the controversy within a long historical and philosophical tradition. The judgment emphasizes that disputes concerning electoral rolls are inseparable from the legitimacy of democratic governance. Every democracy must define the body of citizens who may participate in collective political decision-making. Electoral registration, therefore, becomes an issue of constitutional identity rather than mere bureaucracy. What makes the introduction especially striking is its historical sweep. The Court traces India’s democratic inheritance back to the ancient republics of the Gangetic plains, particularly the Vajji confederacy centered around Vaishali in present-day Bihar. During the Mahajanapada period, approximately the sixth and fifth centuries BCE, the region witnessed both monarchies and non-monarchical political systems. While Magadha and Anga represented kingship, the Vajji polity embodied forms of collective governance and assembly-based decision-making. Drawing upon the *Mahāparinibbāna Sutta*, the judgment describes the Vajjis as conducting frequent assemblies, deliberating in concord, and operating according to established institutions. Although these republics did not practice universal adult suffrage in the modern constitutional sense, they nonetheless required mechanisms to determine who could participate in governance. Participation was often restricted by lineage, rank, or status, yet the central political problem remained familiar: defining membership within the governing community. ( CURTSY wikipidea) ( The Mahāparinibbāna Sutta is Sutta 16 in the Dīgha Nikāya, a scripture belonging to the Sutta Piṭaka of Theravāda Buddhism. It concerns the end of Gautama Buddha’s life – his parinibbāna – and is the longest sutta of the Pāli Canon. Because of its attention to detail, it has been resorted to as the principal source of reference in most standard accounts of the Buddha’s death) This historical exploration serves an important constitutional purpose. By invoking ancient republican traditions, the Court underscores that the question of political inclusion has deep roots in Indian civilization. The legitimacy of governance has long depended upon recognized procedures for identifying participants in public affairs. Modern electoral rolls are therefore part of a much older democratic continuum, though transformed by constitutional principles of equality and universal suffrage. The judgment’s introductory reasoning also reflects a broader philosophy of constitutional democracy. Representative government does not begin at the polling booth; it begins with inclusion in the electoral process itself. Errors, exclusions, or manipulations in electoral rolls can alter the composition of the electorate and thereby affect democratic legitimacy. In this sense, voter registration is not peripheral to democracy—it is constitutive of it. By grounding its analysis in history, political theory, and constitutional values, the Supreme Court elevates the debate over electoral rolls beyond procedural administration. The judgment reminds us that democracy depends not only on free elections, but also […]
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AUTHORS, PUBLISHERS, AND DATA RETENTION: A LEGAL STUDY UNDER INDIA’S DIGITAL PERSONAL DATA PROTECTION ACT
AUTHORS, PUBLISHERS, AND DATA RETENTION: A LEGAL STUDY UNDER INDIA’S DIGITAL PERSONAL DATA PROTECTION ACT Introduction In today’s digital world, personal data has become one of the most valuable and also vulnerable assets for businesses, governments, and online platforms. Every interaction conducted through digital systems generates information that can identify individuals, including names, addresses, financial records, identity documents, and communication details. As India’s digital economy continues to expand rapidly, concerns relating to privacy, misuse of information, unauthorized access, and data security have become increasingly important. To address these concerns, India enacted the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDP Act). The legislation establishes a legal framework governing the collection, storage, use, processing, and deletion of personal data. Its objective is to protect the privacy rights of individuals while also enabling lawful and responsible data processing for business and governance purposes. The law has particular significance for professionals working in creative industries, especially authors and writers, who routinely share personal information, unpublished manuscripts, research materials, and confidential communications with publishers and digital platforms. What Is Personal Data? Personal data refers to any information that can identify an individual either directly or indirectly. Under the DPDP Act, this includes information such as: Names Mobile numbers Email addresses Aadhaar details Financial and banking information Location data Identity documents The Act applies primarily to digital personal data processed within India. It may also apply to organizations located outside India if they offer goods or services to individuals in India. As digital communication and cloud storage become central to business operations, the protection of personal information has become a critical legal and ethical responsibility. Key Principles of India’s Data Protection Law The DPDP Act is built upon several foundational principles intended to ensure responsible data governance. Consent-Based Processing Organizations must obtain clear and informed consent before collecting or processing personal data. Consent should be free, specific, informed, and capable of being withdrawn easily by the individual. This principle ensures that individuals retain meaningful control over how their personal information is used. Purpose Limitation Personal data may only be used for the purpose for which it was originally collected. Organizations cannot repurpose data for unrelated activities without obtaining fresh authorization. For example, if a publisher collects an author’s banking information for royalty payments, that information cannot later be used for unrelated marketing activities without consent. Data Minimization The law discourages excessive collection of information. Organizations should collect only the data necessary for a legitimate purpose. Data Security Entities handling personal information are required to implement reasonable safeguards to prevent unauthorized access, data breaches, leaks, or misuse. Data Erasure Personal data must be deleted once the purpose for which it was collected has been fulfilled or when consent has been withdrawn, unless another law requires its retention. Rights of Individuals Under the DPDP Act The DPDP Act grants several important rights to individuals, often referred to as “Data Principals.” These rights include: The right to access information regarding their personal data The right to correct inaccurate or outdated information The right to request erasure of personal data The right to grievance redressal The right to nominate another […]
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“DE-DOLLARIZATION: DIVERSIFYING FOR A RESILIENT FUTURE”
“DE-DOLLARIZATION: DIVERSIFYING FOR A RESILIENT FUTURE” De-dollarization refers to the process by which countries, institutions, and companies reduce their reliance on the U.S. dollar in international trade, finance, and reserves. In practical terms, it means: Using other currencies (like the euro, yuan, or local currencies) instead of the dollar for trade and payments Holding fewer U.S. dollars in central bank reserves Issuing debt and pricing commodities in non-dollar currencies Settling financial transactions outside the dollar-based system Key idea: Structural vs. Cyclical Demand Structural demand (long-term) This is about the dollar’s role as the world’s main reserve and transaction currency. It includes: Dominance in foreign exchange markets Use in global commodities (oil, gas, metals) Currency used for international loans and bonds Share of global central bank reserves De-dollarization mainly targets this structural role. If it happens meaningfully, the dollar’s global influence weakens over time. Cyclical demand (short-term) This is driven by economic cycles and market trends, such as: Strong U.S. economic growth High U.S. interest rates Strong stock market performance Global investors seeking “safe assets” Recently, strong U.S. performance (“U.S. exceptionalism”) has increased demand for dollars. Investors hold more USD because U.S. assets looked more attractive. A weaker dollar in the future doesn’t automatically mean de-dollarization. It may just reflect changing market conditions. Why countries pursue de-dollarization? As of early 2026, the USA actively imposes financial and trade sanctions via the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) and Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS). Key targeted countries include Russia, Iran, Cuba, North Korea, Syria, and Venezuela, aiming to restrict trade, influence behavior, and protect national security. Recent actions involve targeting entities linked to Iran’s energy trade, including firms in India, China, and the UAE. Countries may want to reduce dollar dependence to: Avoid U.S. sanctions and financial pressure Reduce exposure to U.S. monetary policy Increase financial sovereignty Strengthen their own currencies Examples include China, Russia, and some BRICS countries promoting trade in local currencies. BRICS SUMMIT 2024 INDIA’S APPROACH ON THE ISSUE The central bank of India, Reserve Bank of India, erstwhile Governor Shaktikanta Das, stated in December 2024 that dedollarization for India was only a part of “derisking” Indian trade and reducing dependence on any one currency since that may become “problematic”. While a BRICS currency had been raised by a member state, nothing specific was decided. He also compared the Euro and stated how nations in Euro countries are located in proximity, while that is not the case with BRICS.This was in response to a question about President-elect Trump warning about tariffs. Former ambassador D. Bala Venkatesh Varma, in an interview with the think tank India Foundation, states that India’s stance in BRICS is “pro-India” and “claiming that BRICS is dominated by China is an exaggeration”. ( wikipedia) US Gold Reserves: Stability, Not Decline US gold reserves have remained unchanged for decades, currently at 8,133.46 tonnes (about $11.041 billion at official valuation). The US remains the world’s largest official holder of gold, accounting for over a quarter of global central bank gold reserves. While the US gold stock is stable, other countries—especially China, Russia, and several emerging markets—have accelerated […]
Read moreTHE U.S. DOLLAR’S JOURNEY: BUILDING AND SUSTAINING GLOBAL SUPREMACY
America rules the world because trade is dominated by dollar. The U.S. dollar’s dominance stems from the massive, stable U.S. economy, its deep and liquid financial markets (like US Treasury markets), the rule of law, and trust in American institutions, solidified by the 1944 Bretton Woods Agreement that pegged other currencies to the dollar, backed by gold. Even after abandoning the gold standard, its role as the primary currency for global trade (especially oil), its role as a safe haven in crises, and the established infrastructure for dollar transactions (like SWIFT) cemented its status, giving the U.S. unique financial power. The 1944 Bretton Woods Agreement, signed by 44 nations alliance in New Hampshire, which was established after-WWII to run and manage international monetary system based on fixed exchange rates, with the U.S. dollar pegged to gold ($35/ounce) and other currencies pegged to the dollar. It created the IMF and World Bank to foster stability, lasting until 1971 The Bretton Woods Framework: Foundations of Modern Global Finance In July 1944, nearly 730 representatives from 44 countries gathered at Bretton Woods to design a stable and efficient system for international currency exchange, discourage harmful currency devaluations, and encourage global economic development. The resulting Bretton Woods Agreement was instrumental in achieving these aims, establishing the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank as key institutions. Although the original Bretton Woods system ended in the 1970s, both the IMF and World Bank continue to play essential roles in supporting international currency exchange and maintaining global financial stability. ( curtsy National WWII Museum) Harry Dexter White: Architect of Bretton Woods and Controversial Legacy Harry Dexter White played a pivotal role in shaping the Bretton Woods Agreement, which led to the creation of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. As a government economist, White was instrumental in designing the postwar global economic order and contributed significantly to establishing the United States as a dominant world power. Despite these achievements, his legacy has often been clouded by allegations of espionage, with claims that he acted as a Soviet spy. While these accusations have persisted over time, they remain unproven, and some evidence suggests his innocence. Bretton Woods 1944: The Birth of Modern Global Finance Two major institutions were created: The International Monetary Fund (IMF), tasked with monitoring exchange rates and providing short-term loans to countries facing balance-of-payments deficits. The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD/World Bank), designed to finance postwar reconstruction and economic development. The agreement delivered nearly three decades of monetary stability for Western economies, fostering international trade. However, it ultimately collapsed in 1971 when the U.S. ended dollar-to-gold convertibility. Despite this, the institutions founded at Bretton Woods remain central pillars of the global financial system today. The Nixon Shock: What Happened? On August 15, 1971, U.S. President Richard Nixon announced a series of sweeping economic measures that fundamentally changed the global financial system. The most significant of these was the unilateral suspension of the U.S. dollar’s convertibility into gold, effectively ending the Bretton Woods system of fixed exchange rates that had governed international finance since World War II. [en.wikipedia.org] Key […]
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CRITICAL ROLE OF TITLE CLEARANCE IN REDEVELOPMENT
In a redevelopment project, it is highly recommended to verify and clear the property’s title first before formally deciding on and appointing a builder. While a builder can be tentatively selected (e.g., via a Letter of Intent or a resolution in a Special General Body Meeting), formalizing the development agreement and starting the actual project activities (like demolition or construction) without a clear and marketable title creates significant legal and financial risks. Why Title Clearance is Crucial First Legal Requirement: For a builder to obtain necessary municipal approvals and a Commencement Certificate (CC) to begin construction, the society must generally have a clear and marketable title to the land. This is often achieved through a registered conveyance deed or “deemed conveyance”. Risk Mitigation: Unclear land titles are a common source of delays and litigation in redevelopment projects. Title disputes can halt the project indefinitely, leaving both the builder and the society members in a precarious situation (e.g., displaced and without their new homes). Financial Safeguard: A clear title ensures the project is legally sound and makes it easier for the builder to secure project financing and for future buyers in the free-sale component to get home loans. This financial stability is a key factor in a project’s success. Transparency and Trust: Conducting thorough legal due diligence, including title verification, at an early stage demonstrates transparency and helps build trust between the society members and the chosen developer. Recommended Order of Operations (General Steps) Initial Decisions & Structural Audit: The society discusses redevelopment and conducts a structural audit to determine feasibility. Appoint Professionals: An architect/Project Management Consultant (PMC) and a legal advisor are appointed to guide the process. Title Verification/Conveyance: The society’s legal team conducts comprehensive title verification and works to obtain a clear conveyance deed or deemed conveyance for the property. Builder Selection: Once the title is confirmed, a transparent tendering process is used to select a reputable builder with a proven track record, financial stability, and relevant experience. Formal Agreements: A detailed Development Agreement (DA) and individual Permanent Alternate Accommodation Agreements (PAAA) are meticulously drafted, vetted by legal experts, and registered. Project Commencement: The builder then seeks the required approvals (IOD, CC, etc.) and begins construction. Prioritizing title clearance helps safeguard the interests of all stakeholders and ensures a smoother, legally compliant redevelopment process. HOW FAR A CERTIFICATE OF TITLE BY A SOLICITOR/ ADVOCATE IS SIGNIFICANT? In Ramniklal Tulsidas Kotak And Others vs Varsha Builders And Others on 26 August, 1991 Equivalent citations: AIR1992BOM62, AIR 1992 BOMBAY 62, (1993) MAH LJ 323, (1992) 2 BANKCAS 441, (1992) 2 BOM CR 492 “(1) A Certificate of Title need not necessarily be unconditional or unqualified. It can be qualified to the limited extent of the implied statutory exception contained in Section 3(2)(b) of the Maharashtra Ownerships Flats Act, 1963, as interpreted above. The Format of the Certificate of Title prescribed by the rules is mandatory, subject only to a limited scope for adaptability as explained in the judgment. A qualified certificate of title must furnish all relevant information as set out in paragraph 19 of this judgment. (2) The Promoter must […]
Read moreSELF REDEVELOPMENT
SELF REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY PLANNED REDEVELOPMENT – SUGGESTIONSThe government of Maharashtra is actively pursuing the establishment of a dedicated Redevelopment Oversight Authority. This body would function as an independent authority to regulate, streamline, and monitor all types of redevelopment projects across the state, with a specific focus on increasing transparency and resolving disputes.A suggestion was floated by writer of this blog. It is now under consideration.Moving forward what are suggestions? Establishment of a judicial body with judicial powers to monitor and resolve issues including of title of land (which is not with RERA); If government is of the opinion that right of civil court will be ousted, then Development Authority must be empowered to refer the issue to Civil Court. Key Details and Objectives Scope: The proposed authority would have specialized jurisdiction over all redevelopment projects, including those initiated by private developers, self-redevelopment schemes by cooperative housing societies (CHS), cluster redevelopment, and Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) projects. Aims: The primary goals are to accelerate project timelines, enhance accountability, and provide regulatory clarity, addressing common challenges like bureaucratic delays, opaque agreements, and litigation that often stall projects. Functions: Streamlined Approvals: Act as a single-window clearance mechanism to facilitate faster project sanctions. Monitoring and Compliance: Monitor project progress using technology-enabled reporting and enforce penalties for undue delays. Dispute Resolution: Serve as a quasi-judicial body to mediate and resolve conflicts between residents, developers, and planning authorities. Standardization: Standardize procedures for project planning, developer selection, and financial approvals Current StatusThe state government has already established a separate Self Redevelopment Authority (SRA, distinct from the Slum Rehabilitation Authority) to specifically promote and expedite projects undertaken by housing societies themselves, appointing a chairman for the new body. The broader, overarching Redevelopment Oversight Authority for all project types is currently in the planning stage, with high-level committees having submitted reports recommending its formation.This initiative is expected to have a significant impact on urban areas like Mumbai and Pune, where aging buildings and high demand make redevelopment a critical part of the urban growth strategy. Maharashtra’s Self-Redevelopment Rules, guided by Government Resolutions (GRs) from 2019 and subsequent amendments, enable housing societies to redevelop buildings over 30 years old, offering benefits like extra Floor Space Index (FSI) and incentives, requiring society ownership, member consent (typically 70%+), appointing experts (PMC, Architect), and securing loans via banks like MDCC Bank, streamlining approvals with a single-window system for transparency, but necessitate adherence to Maharashtra Cooperative Societies Act rules.Key Eligibility & Requirements: Age: Building must be 30+ years old. Ownership: Society must own the land (Conveyance Deed) or have a valid purchase agreement. Registration: Must be registered under the Maharashtra Cooperative Societies Act, 1960. Consent: At least 70% member consent is generally needed for major decisions. Audit: Societies need ‘A’ or ‘B’ audit class for loans. Benefits & Incentives: Extra FSI/TDR: Societies get 10% more FSI/incentive space than usual. Reduced Costs: Lower premiums, taxes, and charges. Single Window: Streamlined approvals via a nodal agency. Process Overview: Formation: Society decides on self-redevelopment. Appointment: Appoint Project Management Consultant (PMC), Architect, Legal Advisor. Approvals: Secure initial permissions (IOD/LOA) at society cost. Loan: Apply to banks like Mumbai […]
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DEEMED CONVEYANCE OR DOOMED CONVEYANCE
Today here we are going to discuss A very important TOPIC Deemed Conveyance. This Article also contains suggestions, and I appeal to the government to consider seriously for benefit of people at large. Deemed Conveyance has become fraud and liberal approach of courts and of law has given full freedom to the Committee, who circumvent law and oppress members after taking blanket consent. Let us first learn the provision: State of Maharashtra – Section 11 in The Maharashtra Ownership Flats (Regulation of the Promotion of Construction, Sale, Management and Transfer) Act, 1963 Promoter to convey title, etc., and execute documents, according to agreement. [(1) A promoter shall take all necessary steps to complete his title and convey to the organisation of persons, who take flats, which is registered either as a co-operative society or as a company as aforesaid, or to an association of flat takers [or apartment owners] [Section 11 renumbered as sub-section (1) and sub-sections (2) to (5) were inserted by Maharashtra 4 of 2008, (w.e.f. 25-2-2008), Section 6.] his right, title and interest in the land and building, and execute all relevant documents therefor in accordance with the agreement executed under section 4 and if no period for the execution of the conveyance is agreed upon, he shall execute the conveyance within the prescribed period and also deliver all documents of title relating to the property which may be in his possession or power.] (2) [ It shall be the duty of the promoter to file with the Competent Authority, within the prescribed “‘period, a copy of the conveyance executed by him under sub-section (1). (3) If the promoter fails to execute the conveyance in favour of the co-operative society formed under Section 10 or, as the case may be, the company or the association of apartment owners, as provided by sub-section (1), within the prescribed period, the members of such co-operative society or, as the case may be, the company or the association of apartment owners may, make an application, in writing, to the concerned Competent Authority accompanied by the true copies of the registered agreements for sale, executed with the promoter by each individual member of the society or the company or the association, who have purchased the fiats and all other relevant documents (including the occupation certificate, if any), for issuing a certificate that such society, or as the case may be, company or association, is entitled to have an unilateral deemed conveyance, executed in their favour and to have it registered. (4)The Competent Authority, on receiving such application, within reasonable time and in any case not later than six months, after making such enquiry as deemed necessary and after verifying the authenticity of the documents submitted and after giving the promoter a reasonable opportunity of being heard, on being satisfied that it is a fit case for issuing such certificate, shall issue a certificate to the Sub-Registrar or any other appropriate Registration Officer under the Registration Act, 1908, certifying that it is a fit case for enforcing unilateral execution of conveyance deed conveying the right, title and interest of the promoter in the […]
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Legal Fraud or Ownership Rights? Deemed Conveyance Explained
The concept of deemed conveyance under the Maharashtra Ownership Flats Act (MOFA), 1963, allows housing societies to gain legal ownership of land when builders fail to execute the conveyance deed. This process is crucial for mitigating issues stemming from non-compliance, enabling societies to have control over property and redevelopment despite the complexities of leasehold and fraudulent practices.
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AI AND MEDICAL SCIENCE
INTRODUCTION AI is a blessing for health care. When we are scared of an AI in such an arena if I say it’s a boon then of course I must explain how. In the Western world healthcare is good but the patient has to wait for days or months. While in my Country India, it’s immediate. We just get admission and the next day the patient is operated on. In the West, there is a shortage of human resources. Many countries issue visas for medical and para-medical services with benefits attached. So AI can be a blessing in disguise for the West. Let’s analyze how. FACTS AND TECHNOLOGY In India, for various types of surgeries, doctors are already using robots. These surgeries are complicated like cancer, dental surgeries, stone, spine, etc. These surgeries are affordable because of the use of robots by doctors. It’s called robotic surgery. India is now a medical hub because of its competitive price, availability of doctors, immediate care, and affordability. If AI is brought in, in the medical field many lives can be saved as there will be immediate attention given to the patient. This will help even a person who is going through pain to get early relief. Nowadays there is much discussion on new invention of an AI “eye”. If this EYE is introduced in the medical field then we do not require huge machines like X-rays and MRIs. This will save cost and also space. Especially in metro cities space crunch is always an issue. I understand that this EYE technology will give an instant cause of disease and doctors can treat patients fast. Many patients are scared of huge machines which catch their body in. So this issue of scare will also be resolved. DISCUSSION But with blessings, there are shortcomings too. The question arises when robotic surgery fails. Who is responsible for error done by robots? The hospital? The doctor who was in command of the robot? or the company which designed and activated software and algorithms? Usually, if a surgery is done by a human being a certified licensed surgeon then of course he is liable. But in the case of robotic surgery malfunction maker of the robot company is responsible. Certain fundamental laws are dictums about liability. But it needs to be codified. Certain resolutions are passed by the UN but it is in the nascent stage. CONCLUSION Use technology for the benefit of humankind. As such rockets and bombs are also technology but it’s for destruction. During surgery if the internet signal is lost who is responsible? Well, human race is ready for AI? Surgeries were done even in ancient India. Sushrut Samhita speaks of it. Another question therefore arise is do we need AI? All these questions will be answered with the passage of time. But at present with whatever inventions are there in the market it’s a blessing for humankind. Shruti Desai 17th September 2025
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Redevelopment and Property Rights: Key Insights
Today, we will discuss a very critical issue: redevelopment. Redevelopment involves fundamental rights, Article 300A, Guideline 79A, and managing committees. Before we proceed, I kindly request you to like, subscribe, and share my channel since it is free of cost and the issues discussed here are relevant to the general public. Let’s move forward with redevelopment. Redevelopment is a hot topic, and roughly every third building is undergoing redevelopment. It’s true. Just as in life, according to Hindu scriptures, when we leave our body, our soul enters a new body and takes a new birth, similarly, an old building must be given new life through redevelopment. The first movement for redevelopment started in the Island City of Mumbai because all the old buildings, known as chawls, would get flooded during the monsoon season, and there were no laws to address this. Murli Deora, a senior leader, introduced a law for the redevelopment of dilapidated buildings. This law provided many benefits and initially applied to cess buildings from Churchgate, Colaba to Bandra. Gradually, in 1991, the Development Control Regulations (DCR) were introduced, covering provisions for redevelopment of Mhada lands, slums, army and police headquarters, BMC properties, and housing societies. I have discussed all these in my book, "Commentary on Development Control Regulations 1991," which is now in its 15th edition. Moving past 1991, in 2009, Guideline 79A was introduced for cooperative societies. Most redevelopment projects in Mumbai today are under this guideline. On January 3, 2009, these guidelines mandated that redevelopment projects be prepared by the managing committee. However, many complaints arose, such as managing committees not keeping members informed, lack of transparency, arbitrary appointments, and mismanagement during meetings like AGMs and SGMs. Often, committees behaved as if they were landlords and the flat owners were their tenants or slaves. They even recorded videos but did not share them with the members. When members approached the registrar, orders would take months or even a year, by which time the entire process was often derailed. Another issue was lack of coordination between architects and project consultants, who often worked at cross purposes. Redevelopment projects were prepared without proper planning, and tenders were finalized unfairly. Agreements with developers lacked parity and clarity. After these concerns were raised, the government revised the guidelines through a Government Resolution (GR) on July 4, 2019, under Section 79A of the Maharashtra Cooperative Societies Act, 1960. I will share the link to this GR in the video description so you can read it. The 2019 guidelines state that one-fifth of society members can represent the committee to propose redevelopment, along with submitting schemes and suggestions. Within 8 days of receiving the application, the society must issue a notice for an SGM, which should be held within 14 days, followed by convening AGMs or SGMs. Quotations must be obtained from three architects and project management consultants to assess the viability of the redevelopment project. However, problems persist. Sometimes the committee claims members’ consent without any scheme or decision in place. Is this legal? Often, committees record videos but do not share them with members. Can a committee take a […]
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