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A significant surge in illegal constructions has become a prevailing issue in the Kondhwa area in Pune, with a lack of proper police and civic oversight being attributed as a major cause. This lax environment has consequently led to a concerning deficiency in tenant police verifications, further exacerbating the problem. Recognizing the importance of tenant verification as a means to monitor and deter antisocial elements, this issue has gained even more prominence in light of recent events, particularly the arrests linked to the Pune ISIS module case in Kondhwa.
Law enforcement officials revealed that the arrested individuals had been residing in a rented flat within the Meethanagar locality of Kondhwa for a 18 months. Shockingly, it was only after their apprehension that authorities became aware of the failure of the landlord to subject these tenants to proper police verification.
Imtiyaz Sayyed, a property broker from NIBM Road, shed light on the prevailing situation, stating that many property owners involved in these illegal constructions are reticent to initiate tenant verification procedures due to fears of repercussions from both the civic body and the income tax department. Rather than opting for official leave and license agreements, these property owners tend to rely on informal undertakings from tenants, often on a stamped paper of nominal value, declaring the leasing or renting of the property for a specified duration.
Efforts are being made by the police to raise awareness and encourage housing societies to cooperate in sharing information about their tenants for verification purposes. To underline the seriousness of the matter, the police have also issued warnings that the failure to conduct tenant verification could lead to legal actions under Section 188 (disobedience) of the Indian Penal Code.
A former corporator revealed the stark reality of the situation indicating that approximately 3,000 illegal properties are scattered throughout the area. Furthermore, nearly 80% of the population residing in the interior regions of Kondhwa comprises tenants. He attributed the rampant growth of illegal constructions to a lack of vigilance from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). These unauthorized buildings often lack proper identification, such as names or flat numbers.
Kondhwa's history has brought it under the scrutiny of investigative agencies due to a series of arrests related to terrorism suspects over the past decade. This has taken a toll on local businesses, causing a shift in residence for many residents or forcing them to consider relocation. The area has become a haven for individuals hailing from different parts of India, including Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Karnataka, Jharkhand, and Assam. Additionally, foreign nationals have sought refuge there due to its perceived safety and affordability.
While Kondhwa encompasses an extensive area of 32 square kilometres with a population exceeding 1 million, the lack of proper property identification makes it challenging for law enforcement to conduct effective searches. The influx of outsiders seeking shelter in the area further complicates matters, creating a pressing need for a more dedicated police presence.
Senior Inspector Santosh Sonawane from the Kondhwa police highlighted a positive step forward, indicating that around 500 property owners have already shared tenant information following an awareness campaign that was initiated on July 20th. He emphasized the intent to take action against property owners who fail to cooperate in providing tenant details.
In conclusion, the pervasive issue of illegal constructions and the subsequent laxity in tenant police verifications in Kondhwa are multi-faceted problems that demand comprehensive solutions. The need for collaboration between property owners, law enforcement, and civic authorities is evident in the quest to create a safer and more regulated living environment.
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