The Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) has launched a special Amnesty Scheme to ease the process of obtaining Occupancy Certificates (OCs) for redeveloped buildings in Mumbai and its suburbs. This move is expected to benefit around 80 housing societies and will remain valid until April 10, 2025.
Relief for Delayed Housing Societies
Many housing societies in the region were unable to pay the premium differential amount for redevelopment, leading to delays in the issuance of occupancy certificates. The new Amnesty Scheme aims to resolve this issue by waiving the interest charged on the premium differential amount. Societies will now only need to pay the principal amount.
Benefits of the Amnesty Scheme
Buildings redeveloped under the 1991 Development Control Regulations will receive a 75 percent waiver on penalties related to unauthorized construction or usage. This waiver will significantly reduce the financial burden on societies and their members.
Eligibility and Coverage
The Amnesty Scheme applies to housing societies that received redevelopment permissions between January 7, 1912, and November 12, 2018, under the 1991 Development Control Regulations. Additionally, societies that received redevelopment approvals between July 29, 2004, and June 4, 2007, will also be eligible for the scheme.
Key Features of the Scheme
Occupancy certificates will now be issued based on the allotted plot areas as approved by MHADA. Covered balconies, flower beds, and similar extensions will be taken into account while issuing the certificates. Societies with unauthorized constructions beyond approved plans will receive a 75 percent waiver on penalties, but still need to pay the remaining amount as per MHADA’s rules.
Positive Impact Expected
The Amnesty Scheme is expected to provide relief to societies and their members who have faced financial difficulties due to delays in obtaining occupancy certificates. Developers who have completed redevelopment and handed over buildings to societies will also benefit from reduced financial burdens on societies and their members.
