BMC Approves OC Amnesty Scheme for Pre-2016 Buildings Across Mumbai
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) General Body approved the OC Amnesty Scheme late Tuesday night to regularise occupied buildings in Mumbai that currently lack an Occupation Certificate (OC).
Mayor Ritu Tawde approved the policy, which applies to units measuring up to 80 square metres (816 square feet) in buildings constructed between 1991 and November 2016. The scheme is not restricted to residential properties; schools and hospitals will also be eligible in accordance with directions issued by the State Urban Development Department.
The proposal was earlier cleared by the BMC Standing Committee in July before being placed before the General Body for final sanction. First announced in 2025 by Maharashtra minister Ashish Shelar ahead of the civic elections, the amnesty is expected to benefit more than 20,000 buildings across the city that currently operate without an OC.
While the ruling BJP–Mahayuti alliance defended the decision as necessary relief for thousands of residents affected by developer defaults, Opposition corporators cautioned that the move could end up favoring defaulting builders. Several members across parties raised procedural questions during the discussion.
BJP corporator Pravin Chedha raised concerns over a clause requiring applicants to secure No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from developers and architects, asking how residents could obtain them if the original developers were no longer traceable. Shiv Sena (UBT) corporator Sachin Padwal pointed out that the policy remained unclear on whether approvals would be granted to structures lacking fire-fighting installations or containing unauthorised floors.
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena group leader Yashwant Killedar demanded clear details on penalties for errant builders and architects, while Shiv Sena (UBT) corporator Vishakha Raut alleged the measure favored builders over flat buyers.
Responding to the concerns, Leader of the House Ganesh Khankar said there would be no compromise on fire-safety regulations or unauthorised floors during the process of granting OCs.
