Oct 23 – High Court today observed that meagre fine and absence of penalty for illegal constructions makes people disregard the law and become brazen. The Court made the observation while hearing the Suo Motu petition against illegal constructions and encroachments in the State. Demolition of the illegal structure and a meagre fine of Rs 5,000 is prescribed in the Panchayat Raj Act and the Municipalities Act against such illegal construction, informed AG Devidas Pangam. There is no high penalty, no imprisonment, he added. During todays arguments, High Court focused on Municipal laws. Court wanted some solution as to how the work or removal of illegal constructions could be expedited and how to further ensure that no construction of this type spring up in the jurisdiction of the municipality, AG added. The hearing in the matter will continue further tomorrow.
