Kochi flat owners begin hunger strike as deadline to demolish posh flats comes to end

Kochi: After the Supreme Court's order September 6 for the demolition by September 20 for violating the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) rules, the Maradu municipality served notices to flat owners to vacate the premises by Saturday. But the flat owners have begun a relay hunger strike. From Monday, they will stage protest at the Maradu local body that gave sanction for the complex over a decade ago, reported News18.

The apex court had asked the Kerala Chief Secretary to be present before the Justice Arun Mishra-headed Bench on September 23.

The Maradu complex comprises 356 flats in five buildings and 240 families are living there.

"I bought a flat few years ago from a person who was staying here. When I purchased it, I didn't look into who the builder was but the documents and various tax receipts. The bank that had given loan also checked everything. It's the responsibility of the Kerala government to take appropriate action against wrong-doers," said an angry flat owner.

Meanwhile, Municipality Secretary Arif Khan said they had discharged their duties and issued notices to flat owners, but none was complying with it.

On Sunday, the builders stated in writing to the Maradu municipality that their responsibilities ended long ago and they had nothing to do with the present situation. Builders said they had paid all taxes and were no longer responsible for anything there.

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