Archive · 23 May 2025
La Martiniere Schools Must Get Approval for Building Repairs
Imagine a very old and important school building needing repairs, like fixing a leaky roof or painting.
The court says the school can't do anything to the building without permission because it's a special 'heritage' site.
The school wants to fix things during summer break, but the local government hasn't given them the go-ahead.
The government says the school started work anyway, even though they were told not to.
Now, the court is making sure everyone follows the rules and that the building is kept safe.
Calcutta High Court ruled that La Martiniere schools must obtain approval from the West Bengal Heritage Commission for civil work.
The court's decision followed a plea from La Martiniere seeking permission for repairs during the summer vacation.
KMC reported that construction work occurred despite a stop-work notice and court stay order.
The school's counsel contested KMC's claims, highlighting the urgency of repairs for safety.
The court directed KMC to provide a report and instructed the school to approach the commission.
- Who
- Calcutta High Court, La Martiniere schools, West Bengal Heritage Commission, and KMC.
- What
- The court case involved the repair and restoration plea by La Martiniere, which requires approval from the West Bengal Heritage Commission before any civil work on the buildings.
- When
- The court ruling was on Thursday, with the core issue concerning the summer vacation period (May 16 to June 12).
- Where
- Kolkata, specifically at La Martiniere schools.
- Why
- The court case is centered around the requirement for La Martiniere schools to obtain approval from the West Bengal Heritage Commission for any civil work on the heritage buildings.
La Martiniere Schools
KMC/Heritage Commission
Permits and Regulations
La Martiniere Schools
Argues for the urgency of necessary repairs due to safety concerns and requests permission to proceed during the summer vacation to minimize disruption.
KMC/Heritage Commission
Maintains that all civil work on the heritage structure requires prior approval from the heritage commission, and that the school violated a stop-work order.
- Building Type
- Grade-I heritage structure
- Court
- Calcutta High Court
- Parties Involved
- La Martiniere Schools, KMC, West Bengal Heritage Commission
- Issue
- Repair and restoration of heritage buildings
- Legal Status
- Sub judice