Maharashtra Tribunal Orders CIDCO to Register Land Schemes as Real Estate Projects

In a significant legal development, the Maharashtra Real Estate Appellate Tribunal (MREAT) has ordered the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) to register its land schemes as real estate projects. This ruling stems from a complaint filed by the Maharashtra Chamber of Housing Industry (MCHI) in 2018, alleging that CIDCO had failed to register as a project promoter before initiating land sale schemes.

The MREAT, in its judgment, determined that CIDCO’s activities, including land subdivision and development, constituted real estate development as defined under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016. The tribunal emphasized that CIDCO’s role as a planning and development authority did not exempt it from the provisions of the Act. This landmark decision has far-reaching implications for the real estate sector in Maharashtra. It underscores the importance of regulatory compliance and transparency in land sales. By mandating registration as a promoter, CIDCO will be subject to the provisions of the Real Estate Act, which includes obligations such as project registration, disclosure of project details, and adherence to timelines.

The MREAT’s ruling is a victory for consumer protection and ensures that buyers of CIDCO land plots are afforded the rights and safeguards provided under the Real Estate Act. It sets a precedent for other developers and authorities to adhere to the regulatory framework and prioritize the interests of homebuyers. As the real estate sector continues to evolve, it is crucial for developers and authorities to maintain transparency, accountability, and ethical practices. By complying with the Real Estate Act, developers can build trust with buyers and contribute to the overall development of the real estate industry.