Regularising illegalities will embolden wrongdoers

Commuters wait at the bus stop in Shivaji Nagar, Govandi

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has warned of demolition action against a trust running a library-cum study centre, intended for underprivileged children, at Shivaji Nagar in Govandi. According to BMC's M East ward, the illegal extension/construction was found during the civic body's joint inspection last month.

The BMC issued a notice to the trust last month to remove the illegally constructed portion, a mezzanine floor inside the library, or face demolition actiony the civic body. They have been given 15 days within which to complete the demolition.

We must see that the trust adheres to the notice and finishes removing the illegal extension. Trusts and NGOs must inspire confidence in people. These are the bodies that work for welfare, for the underprivileged and deprived. When they are hauled up for illegalities, the people's faith is eroded. It also tarnishes the good name of other organisations or trusts working for the people.

Then, the bigger picture is that structures, buildings, any infra do slowly indulge in illegal extensions or additions. If brought to the attention of authorities, often, they seek to regularise it. Sometimes it is under the radar and goes unnoticed or unchecked. Then, it also emboldens others to do the same. We see this in so many pockets of the city.

First of all, this extension should not have come up at all. Now, that it has happened and a notice of demolition has been given, rules must be adhered to. See that all buildings and premises do keep to what they are allowed. Making additions and alterations hoping to escape attention, is a huge malaise here.

Leadership must ensure that those who dare to complain are not threatened or live in fear. The, overarching aim is for each and every organisation, be it trust, commercial premises or residential to exist within rules and regulation and address and redress the problem, in case of error.