Supreme Court Defers Hearing on MHADA Section 79A Notices to September 10

The Supreme Court has deferred its hearing on whether the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) holds the authority to issue Section 79A notices to dilapidated cessed structures across Mumbai, including South Mumbai, pushing the matter to September 10.

The postponement follows a request from Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) lawyers, who sought an adjournment just a day prior to the scheduled court proceedings. The move has extended the uncertainty for residents living in more than 900 pagadi buildings across the city who are awaiting administrative and redevelopment relief.

At the core of the legal proceedings is the question of MHADA's competence and jurisdiction to serve Section 79A notices for decaying and dilapidated cessed properties. These notices are crucial for determining the redevelopment and repair pathways for ageing structures.

With the matter now scheduled for September 10, tenants and occupants continue to reside in deteriorating buildings under precarious conditions. Residents have expressed frustration over the repeated postponements, voicing concern that continuous delays in the legal process will keep them trapped in unsafe and ageing housing without timely intervention.