Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji
Panaji, Jan 29: The Goa government has issued three circulars directing that no permissions for building constructions be granted without proper completion and occupancy certificates, in compliance with the Supreme Court’s directives, the Bombay High Court at Goa was informed on Wednesday.
The submission was made by the Additional Government Advocate during the hearing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Agnelo Francis Baretto. The circulars were placed on record to demonstrate compliance with the Supreme Court order dated December 17, 2024, delivered in connection with two civil appeals concerning unauthorised constructions.
The circulars, issued by the Town and Country Planning (TCP) Department, Directorate of Urban Development, and Directorate of Panchayats, have been communicated to all competent authorities across the state, with strict directives for enforcement.
According to the circulars, while granting building planning permissions, authorities must first obtain an undertaking from the builder or owner confirming compliance with approved building plans. Subsequently, after a personal inspection and verification that construction strictly adheres to the approved plans without deviations, the authority may issue the completion and occupancy certificate for residential or commercial buildings without delay.
The circulars also specify that essential service connections, including electricity, water supply, and sewerage, shall be provided only after valid completion and occupancy certificates are produced. Service providers have been explicitly directed not to extend any facilities in the absence of these mandatory certificates.
In November 2024, the Supreme Court had issued nationwide guidelines regulating demolition and addressing unauthorised constructions, aiming to curb arbitrary “bulldozer justice” while ensuring enforcement actions comply with due process and the rule of law.
The Goa government’s circulars are intended to implement these judicial directions at the ground level, strengthening compliance with planning and building regulations and ensuring proper legal procedures in construction and enforcement activities.