How to File a Complaint Against Illegal Construction: A Step-by-Step Guide
Illegal constructions are a growing concern in urban areas like Kolkata, affecting safety, legal ownership, and overall civil order. Whether it’s an extra floor added without permission or a building constructed on encroached land, illegal construction in Kolkata poses a risk to both property buyers and the general public.
If you are facing such a situation, you might be wondering how to stop illegal construction near your property. This blog will provide you with a step-by-step guide on filing an illegal building construction complaint and protecting your rights as a property owner.
Public Reporting of Illegal Construction
The Kolkata Municipal Act (1980) has set a significant amendment targeting increased penalties and strict enforcement to stand against unauthorised construction. The major amendments that were presented were: increasing the punishment of imprisonment to five years. Increasing the fine up to ten lakh rupees, which created a strong financial impact.
Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) emphasises more public reporting by including complaint filing, where any individual can anonymously file a complaint to the Municipal Corporation.
Nowadays, online platforms are also used for submitting complaints. Every complaint should be supported with strong evidence, such as photographs and property documents, to prove their valid claim. This initiative has promoted a community approach and encouraged action against illegal construction in Kolkata.
Step-by-Step Guide To File a Complaint Against Illegal Construction
Step 1: Gather Evidence
Before filing any complaint to the official administrative desk, collecting relevant documents to convey your stand is crucial. The following documents are required to file a complaint against an illegal construction complaint in Kolkata. Details of illegal construction, such as address, building name, photographs, and videos of the illegal structure. The property papers need to be submitted. Additionally, provide previous complaints or notices if they exist.
Step 2: Submit Complaint to the KMC (Online/ Offline)
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation(KMC) is the primary authority responsible for regulating or acting against illegal construction in Kolkata. There are mainly two ways of filing a complaint. One is the online method, and another is the offline method. To file a complaint online, visit the Kolkata Municipal Corporation Common Complaint e-Form website, fill in the required details with evidence, and submit the complaint. Remember to note the Complaint Number, which shall be of 8 digits, for future reference and follow-up. The offline process of addressing KMC - illegal construction complaints involves visiting the local KMC office, filing a written application addressed to the KMC authority, and the other place where illegal construction complaints in Kolkata can be filed is Kolkata Police, attaching all the evidence and documents to prove your case.
Step 3: Track Progress & Follow Up
Government procedures often take time due to extensive paperwork, approvals, and verification processes. Therefore, take a follow-up after every 7- 10 days, referring to the complaint number received while launching the complaints. If no valuable action is taken after 3 months of registering the complaint, escalate to the higher officials or file a Right To Information Act. (RTI) application.
Prevention of Illegal Construction in West Bengal
Illegal construction is not just a civic issue; it can become a personal headache if left unchecked. If you witness or suffer from such illegal development in your neighbourhood, take some appropriate action, use these guidelines to file a proper complaint against illegal construction in Kolkata, and assert your legal rights. A safe and legal home is not a luxury; it is your right.
Vinayak Group Committed to Legal Construction
As the population is rising in the urban areas, the number of house constructions is leading to a surge of illegal constructions. The strict regulation against these malpractices can be encountered with public awareness, strict punishments, and strong administrative practices. For the average person, building a home is a lifelong dream. Build your home with a reputable and best real estate developers in Kolkata, like Vinayak Group, with over 3 decades of experience in delivering quality homes. Vinayak is committed to transparent communication and ensures that each customer receives full legal documents for a peace of mind.