SC pulls up Odisha govt over non-compliance with December 2024 building norms order

The Supreme Court has directed the Odisha government to submit a compliance report within two weeks on its order mandating strict enforcement of urban development laws, following a contempt plea filed by a Bhubaneswar resident alleging inaction.

The apex court observed that despite its December 2024 judgment requiring all states and Union Territories to issue circulars ensuring adherence to approved building plans and occupancy certificate (OC) norms, Odisha has allegedly failed to implement the directive.

While hearing the petition filed by Bimalendu Pradhan, a bench of Justices J.B. Pardiwala and K.V. Viswanathan clarified that, though the plea was filed under contempt jurisdiction, it would be treated as an application for compliance with the court’s directives.

Reiterating its December guidelines, the Court directed that builders must hand over possession of properties only after securing OCs, display sanctioned plans at construction sites, and ensure that authorities conduct periodic inspections. It further said service providers like electricity and water boards should extend connections only upon production of a completion or occupancy certificate.

“The violation of any of the directions would lead to initiation of contempt proceedings in addition to prosecution under respective laws,” the Court observed.

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The order also warned that officials issuing wrongful OCs would face departmental action. Banks and financial institutions were told to sanction loans only after verifying occupancy certificates.

Real estate expert Bimalendu Pradhan welcomed the move, saying, “The order is in favour of regulated development. Instead of seeking an escape route, the state should comply with the larger interest of the people.”