Supreme Court Tightens Rules On Commercial Use In Residential Areas; Issues 3-Point Directions

The Supreme Court has issued directions tightening rules governing commercial activities in areas designated exclusively for residential use. The court directed authorities to seal premises where commercial activity is found in residential zones, maintain status quo in areas with unclear land use, and proceed with sealing even when ownership disputes or litigation are pending, provided the use violates the allotted purpose.

The court also prohibited discriminatory approaches by authorities and flagged unauthorised structures for sealing or demolition under law. The order was issued on September 22 while hearing a matter concerning unauthorised construction and land use in several states, including Madhya Pradesh.

The court noted alleged non-compliance with its earlier directions in Bhopal, where some properties were reportedly sealed and unsealed within days without intervening decisions by competent authorities. Bhopal residents claimed the Municipal Corporation failed to maintain sustained action despite 45 days passing since initial directions.