The Bombay High Court on Friday made a significant ruling that clears the way for a slum rehabilitation project in Versova, dismissing a plea by stable owners who have occupied the land for over six decades. The owners, facing eviction by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), had sought legal relief against their removal.
Justices Ajey Gadkari and Kamal Khata, presiding over the division bench, rejected the petition, asserting that individuals who usurp properties without legal right do not merit sympathy or additional compensation. “An individual who is a rank trespasser…cannot be seen to be dictating terms to the owner or the developer,” the bench stated.
The controversy centers on the redevelopment of Ramdas Nagar, Versova. One Stop Business Services LLP, tasked with the rehabilitation scheme since 2022, had to intervene due to the stable owners’ refusal to vacate the premises after BMC’s eviction actions in November 2024. The developers were compelled to relocate the cattle to areas outside Mumbai and its suburbs.
The court was informed that despite the demolition of over 400 structures in the area, the stable owners resisted vacating their 11 structures, which include residences and stables. The delay caused by their resistance has led to other displaced residents incurring significant rental costs, amounting to an annual expenditure of ₹75 lakh.
Furthermore, the stable owners were accused of concealing crucial information, such as an existing eviction order from the Slum Rehabilitation Authority and proceedings before the Apex Grievance Redressal Committee. The court confirmed that mere possession of assessment bills, tax receipts, electricity bills, and ration cards does not establish legal ownership of the land.
The bench criticized the stable owners for their lack of cooperation and their sophisticated tactics, which amounted to a form of extortion. By refusing to vacate, they not only caused financial strain on the developer but also risked the viability of the rehabilitation project.
