Chander Kunj Apartment Owners to Challenge Verdict in Review Petitions

Quick Summary

• the single bench of the Kerala High Court confirmed its February 3 verdict for demolition and reconstruction of towers ‘B’ and ‘C’ in Kochi’s Chander Kunj Army Tower apartment complex.
• The apartment owners association plans to file a writ appeal against this verdict before a division Bench. Individual review petitioners may also appeal.
• Key grievances include:

– Exclusion of certain owners from rent eligibility during the demolition-reconstruction phase,especially those renting out their flats or who hadn’t commenced residence.
– Lack of compensation for investment in furnishing apartment interiors.

• Apartments were sold at prices between ₹56 lakh to ₹90 lakh. Some owners argued rental income was necessary to pay off housing loans. Their demands were raised but rejected by a district committee meeting chaired by the Ernakulam District Collector.
• An evacuation deadline has been extended from July 31 to August 31, ahead of demolition scheduled tentatively on November 9, 2025. reconstruction completion is set for October 31, 2029.

Indian opinion Analysis

The decision to go on appeal signals discontent among Chander Kunj residents over provisions associated with forced eviction and reconstruction. Core concerns like financial losses due to rent restrictions and uncompensated interior investments highlight valid issues faced by affected homeowners.

While the court has clarified aspects regarding rent eligibility criteria, gaps persist-impacting those reliant on rental income for loan repayments. Furthermore,judicial silence on furnishings might hinder rehabilitation efforts unless further clarity emerges during appeals.

The phased timeline ensures structural integrity post-demolition but extends considerable inconvenience till project completion in late 2029-raising questions about whether prolonged displacement could be mitigated through alternate arrangements or improved policy frameworks tailored specifically for residents affected by such urban restructuring projects.For more details Click Here