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SRA Developer Appointment and Section 13(2) Termination Procedures in Maharashtra Slum Projects

SRA Developer Appointment & Removal Procedure Guide

Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) projects in Maharashtra play a crucial role in urban redevelopment, transforming slum areas into modern housing while rehabilitating eligible dwellers. A key aspect of these projects is the appointment and, when necessary, removal of the developer. But what exactly is the procedure for appointment and removal of developer in SRA project? Understanding this process is vital for cooperative housing societies, slum dwellers, and developers to ensure compliance, avoid disputes, and keep projects on track.

This guide breaks down the procedures generally followed under the Maharashtra Slum Areas (Improvement, Clearance and Redevelopment) Act, 1971 (SRA Act), drawing from established guidelines and case precedents. Note: This is general information and not specific legal advice. Consult a qualified lawyer for your situation.

Appointment of Developer in SRA Projects

The appointment of a developer typically begins with the cooperative housing society of slum dwellers. Here's the standard step-by-step process:

  1. Initial Appointment via Development Agreement: A developer is appointed by the society through a development agreement. This must align with the SRA Act and SRA guidelines. 2018 0 Supreme(Bom) 2541

  2. Proposal Submission: The developer submits a detailed proposal for the slum rehabilitation scheme to the SRA, including necessary approvals and full regulatory compliance. 2006 0 Supreme(SC) 1062

  3. Issuance of Letter of Intent (LOI): If the proposal is accepted, the SRA issues an LOI, which is essential before project commencement. 2006 0 Supreme(SC) 1055

Additional insights from precedents highlight the society's role in decision-making. For instance, appointments often involve a General Body Meeting (GBM) where voting occurs, such as 75% of eligible structure holders voting in favor of a developer. 2024 0 Supreme(Bom) 140 The SRA supervises and approves, ensuring statutory procedures like official notifications are followed. 2024 0 Supreme(Bom) 140 2025 0 Supreme(Bom) 452

In cases of developer changes, such as partnerships or corporate takeovers, SRA circulars like the office order dated 23.03.2015 recognize these shifts to maintain accountability. 2023 0 Supreme(Bom) 1648

Grounds and Procedure for Removal of Developer

Developers can be removed for specific breaches, protecting the interests of slum dwellers and ensuring project progress. Common grounds include:

Step-by-Step Removal Process

  1. General Body Meeting and Resolution: The society convenes a GBM to discuss issues and pass a resolution citing specific grounds for termination. 2018 0 Supreme(Bom) 2541

  2. Application to SRA under Section 13(2): The society files an application under Section 13(2) of the SRA Act requesting termination. 2019 0 Supreme(Bom) 807

  3. SRA Review and Order: The SRA reviews the application. If valid, it issues an order terminating the developer and allows the society to appoint a new one. 2019 0 Supreme(Bom) 807 2006 0 Supreme(SC) 1062

This process emphasizes due process. Removal often starts with a show cause notice, followed by a hearing, and culminates in a formal order for delays or violations. 2025 0 Supreme(Bom) 452 2024 0 Supreme(Bom) 574 For example, SRA passed the order dated 14.10.2009 under section 13(2) of the Slum Act approving removal of Shiv Kripa as the developer and appointment of Om Omega as the new developer. 2021 0 Supreme(Bom) 388

In another instance, the CEO-SRA rejected a termination application on 17 May 2016, upholding the existing developer after due process, including LOI issuance. 2019 0 Supreme(Bom) 1608 Courts have affirmed SRA's power under Section 13(2), noting, the SRA had the power under Section 13(2) of the Slum Act to issue the order dated 24.02.2012. 2018 1 Supreme 385

Appointing a New Developer Post-Removal

After termination:

  • The society can appoint a new developer following initial appointment procedures, ensuring SRA compliance. 2018 0 Supreme(Bom) 2541
  • The new developer may reimburse the previous one's actual expenses up to termination, as determined by SRA. 2019 0 Supreme(Bom) 807

Precedents support this: respondent No.9-PDPL would be appointed as the new developer for the project, to expedite the execution of the project. 2025 0 Supreme(Bom) 555 New appointments require majority votes or authority approval. 2025 0 Supreme(Bom) 452 2024 0 Supreme(Bom) 140

SRA's Oversight and Legal Considerations

The SRA ensures compliance throughout. Orders are subject to judicial review for due process adherence. 2024 0 Supreme(Bom) 43 2024 0 Supreme(Bom) 574 Disputes between societies and developers are often treated as private, allowing SRA to focus on statutory duties. 2024 0 Supreme(Bom) 43 2025 0 Supreme(Bom) 452

Enquiries against developers can influence outcomes, but binding agreements like MoUs may resolve issues. 2024 1 Supreme 711 Exemptions under SRA clauses have upheld appointments in appeals. 2023 Supreme(Online)(Bom) 26516

Key Takeaways and Recommendations

  • Governed by SRA Act: Appointment starts with society agreement, SRA proposal approval, and LOI; removal via Section 13(2) after resolution and application.
  • Due Process Essential: Notices, hearings, and documentation prevent challenges.
  • Post-Removal Flexibility: Societies can select new developers, with potential reimbursements.

Recommendations:- Comply strictly with SRA Act and guidelines.- Document all meetings, resolutions, and SRA communications meticulously.- 2018 0 Supreme(Bom) 2541 2006 0 Supreme(SC) 1062 2019 0 Supreme(Bom) 807 2021 0 Supreme(Bom) 1046 2006 0 Supreme(SC) 1055

In conclusion, the procedure for appointment and removal of developers in SRA projects balances society rights with regulatory oversight, promoting efficient redevelopment. Staying informed helps avoid pitfalls in these complex projects. For tailored advice, reach out to legal experts specializing in Maharashtra housing laws.

#SRAProject, #DeveloperRemoval, #SlumRehabilitation
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