[Unitech Projects] '13,000 Families in Financial Turmoil': Chennai Homebuyers Urge CJI to Expedite Hearing

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Synopsis

The Chennai-based homebuyers association urged the CJI to take cognizance of the matter, which has caused severe stress and hardship for homebuyers over the years.

Amid the ongoing delays,  a Chennai-based Unitech homeowners’ association has written to the Chief Justice of India (CJI), urging him to expedite the hearing in the ongoing case concerning Unitech projects.While the association highlighted the severe 'financial turmoil ' and 'mental agony' faced by around 13,000 families due to the unresolved status of the case. It also noted that the plight of senior citizens has been exacerbated due to their old age. 

Endorsed during a recent Annual General Body Meeting organised by the association, the letter emphasised that despite the Supreme Court's intervention and formation of a new board for Unitech, construction progress remains hampered due to continued delays in court proceedings.

"As per the current situation, every major step in the building proceedings requires the Supreme Court’s approval, which further prolongs the timeline and leaves homebuyers in a constant state of uncertainty," the letter read.  

Noting that the Chennai projects have been neglected for over 12 years, the letter pointed out that the original construction agreements provided for delay compensation, which could have offered some relief to the affected buyers.

However, the letter also revealed that the Apex Court had ruled out delay compensation which deprivied the homebuyers of financial support and further increased the burden on families, many of whom have been paying both EMIs and rent for several years without any respite.

While the members called for the Top court's intervention to expedite the hearing process, the letter stated, "Given the dire circumstances faced by the homebuyers, many of whom are senior citizens enduring unprecedented mental stress and financial burden. The continued delay not only exacerbates our difficulties but also raises safety concerns for the stalled structures left unattended for years."

Furthermore, the association urged the CJI to take cognizance of the matter, which has caused severe stress and hardship for homebuyers over the years. It further emphasised the need for a speedy verdict as it is the need of the hour to restore the common citizen's faith in the judicial system and provide relief to those suffering.

"We look up to the Supreme Court as the beacon of hope for justice, and we believe that your leadership can end this prolonged ordeal. We kindly request you to consider our plea and take necessary steps to accelerate the proceedings, thereby providing much-needed relief to thousands of struggling families."