Sonamukhi promoter builds 5-stories without approval, faces financial fraud and illegal construction charges

A legal dispute has emerged in Sonamukhi regarding the construction of a five-story building despite approval for only a four-story structure. The building, located in the 15th ward of Sonamukhi Municipality, near Sonamukhi College, was constructed on a 32-katha plot of land owned by Gautam Chakraborty and Alok Bandopadhyay. The landowners entered into an agreement with Jagaddhatri Construction, a local construction company, to build a residential complex on the site.

According to the landowners, Jagaddhatri Construction obtained approval from Sonamukhi Municipality for a four-story building. However, they allege that the company constructed a five-story building without seeking the necessary permissions or informing them. The landowners also claim that the company exploited them financially during the course of the agreement. After approaching the Sonamukhi Municipality and receiving no response, they sought legal action and approached the Kolkata High Court.

The Kolkata High Court reviewed the case and instructed Sonamukhi Municipality to investigate the allegations and take appropriate action within two months. The court also asked the municipality to assess whether the construction violated building codes or exceeded the approved plans. In response, the municipality stated that they had not intervened earlier because the matter was being contested in court. Following the court’s direction, the municipality has begun the process of investigating the case.

Jagaddhatri Construction, the company responsible for the building, has denied the allegations of illegal construction and financial fraud. The company claims that it initially sought permission from the Sonamukhi Municipality to construct a seven-story building. However, due to a restriction on the maximum number of stories that could be approved—set at four stories at that time—the company says it was informed that a revised building plan could potentially allow for a taller structure. The company maintains that the construction of the five-story building was carried out based on the approved plans and documents.

Sonamukhi Municipality has confirmed that it granted permission for the four-story building but has not yet verified the details of the construction. The municipality has stated that they are reviewing the issue in light of the court's directive and will take corrective action as required. As part of this process, the municipality is expected to examine all the relevant documents, including the building permit, the construction plan, and the approval process followed.

The case has drawn attention to the enforcement of building regulations and the role of local authorities in overseeing construction projects. The dispute between the landowners and the construction company, coupled with the involvement of the Kolkata High Court, has raised questions about the regulatory framework for construction projects in Sonamukhi. The outcome of the ongoing investigation by the municipality will determine the next steps in addressing the issue.