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Addressing slum dwellers' plight, Bombay High Court calls for transit rent payment

The Bombay High Court's recent directive has brought attention to a significant issue faced by vulnerable communities in the city: the non-payment of transit rent to slum dwellers during the redevelopment process. The court, comprising Acting Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar and Justice Arif Doctor, has underscored the gravity of this matter and called upon the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) to take proactive steps in resolving it.

The role of the SRA as a statutory authority responsible for overseeing the organized redevelopment of slums is crucial in this context. The court emphasizes that transit rent, which serves as vital support to slum dwellers during the transition phase, must be promptly paid by developers to eligible individuals. By highlighting the potential consequences of non-payment, the court recognizes the financial hardship and uncertainty that slum dwellers may experience during the redevelopment process.

A major concern raised by the court is the possibility of a flood of court cases filed by aggrieved individuals seeking redress for non-payment issues. This could overwhelm the judicial system with an excessive number of litigations. To mitigate this, the court recommends the establishment of a Nodal Officer within the SRA to handle complaints from cooperative societies of slum dwellers. This dedicated channel for grievances could facilitate timely and efficient resolutions, potentially reducing the need for individual court battles.

Moreover, the court stresses the importance of wide publicity regarding the complaint mechanism's availability. By ensuring that slum dwellers are aware of their rights and the process to seek recourse, the court aims to empower them to voice their concerns and receive the necessary attention from the SRA. Transparency and accessibility are key in enabling the affected communities to address their grievances effectively.

Overall, the Bombay High Court's directive sheds light on the pressing issue of transit rent non-payment faced by slum dwellers during redevelopment. The court's call for proactive measures by the SRA, including the appointment of a Nodal Officer and transparent communication, is aimed at resolving the matter efficiently and ensuring the rights of vulnerable communities are protected.

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