Archive · 24 Dec 2025
SRA Sets Up Special Cells for Housing Disputes
The Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) in Mumbai has set up three special teams to help solve problems that slum dwellers are facing.
These problems include not getting paid for temporary housing, not being given permanent homes, and people illegally living in homes meant for others.
The Bombay High Court told the SRA to make sure these problems are solved quickly and fairly.
The court also said that the teams should try to solve problems through talking and understanding, not just by going to court.
If developers don't pay the rent for temporary housing, they might have to freeze some of their saleable areas or face other penalties.
The court wants to make sure that everyone follows the rules and that slum dwellers get the homes they are supposed to.
SRA established three Special Cells to address transit rent, permanent tenements, and illegal occupation issues.
Bombay High Court directed the SRA to resolve disputes sensitively and in a time-bound manner, preferably through mediation.
Developers must pay two years of transit rent upfront and provide post-dated cheques for a third year.
Special Cells will adjudicate complaints within 15-30 days, with penalties for non-compliance including freezing of saleable areas.
The court emphasized that the Special Cells should reduce litigation and ensure that slum dwellers' rights are protected.
- Who
- Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) and Bombay High Court
- What
- Establishment of three Special Cells to resolve housing disputes
- When
- December 22, 2023 (circular issued), December 23, 2023 (court hearing)
- Where
- Mumbai, India
- Why
- To address widespread issues related to slum rehabilitation schemes and reduce litigation
- Organization
- Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA)
- Court
- Bombay High Court
- Number of Special Cells
- 3
- Key Issues Addressed
- Transit rent, permanent tenements, illegal occupation
- Timeline for Resolution
- 15-30 days
- Penalties for Default
- Freezing of sale component, recovery action
- Mediation Training
- Suggested for Special Cell members