Corruption in Building Permission in Maharashtra

Taking building permission in Maharashtra is not an easy task. On paper, the rules are very clear. As per UDCPR, if all the documents are correct and the drawing is proper, the authority has 60 days to either approve or reject the file. But in actual practice, things are very different when an owner or engineer visits the municipal office.

What Owners Face During Permission

Different authorities act in different ways while handling building permission files:

• Some openly ask for money to clear the file.
• Some demand perfect documents and reject the file for even small issues.
• Some keep pointing out mistakes in the drawing again and again.
• Some take extra time and delay the process unnecessarily.
• Some expect only respect and obedience before moving the file.
• Some ask for political support so that the file moves smoothly.
• And surprisingly, some ask for nothing at all – they simply do the case within time, sometimes by following rules, sometimes without following rules.
• In many offices, it is a mix of all these demands.

This creates pressure not only on the owner but also on the registered engineer who has submitted the proposal.

Role of Registered Engineers

Many people think a licensed engineer can handle everything. But the truth is, the engineer has a limited role – to prepare drawings, attach documents, and submit the proposal. He cannot force the authority to approve the file faster. By law, the authority has 60 days, and until that time is over, nobody can question the delay officially.

Another important point is – if the owner does not construct exactly as per the sanctioned drawing, then he loses the right to complain against the authority. Because in that case, the owner himself is breaking the rules.

The Reality for Owners

This puts owners in a very confusing position. If they fight against corruption, the file may get delayed. If they agree to demands, the work gets done faster but at extra cost. And in some cases, the decision depends on political influence or personal relations.

Wise Way to Handle Building Permission

For owners, the safest way to avoid bigger troubles is:

1. Prepare all required documents properly in the first attempt.

2. Ensure the drawing follows UDCPR rules without any mistakes.

3. Be patient for the 60-day timeline given in law.

4. If extra demands or pressure comes, decide wisely whether to adjust or to take the legal way forward.

Getting building permission in Maharashtra is not only about rules but also about handling different demands of authorities. Understanding this reality helps owners plan their project in a better way.