Bhubaneswar: In a major crackdown, the Odisha Real Estate Regulatory Authority (ORERA) has slapped a ₹2 crore penalty on a Bhubaneswar-based real estate promoter. The builder is accused of selling plots in a large project without mandatory approvals or RERA registration.
Project Launched Without Approval
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The illegal plotting project is located in Haridamada, on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar.
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It involves over 2,500 plots spread across 120 acres.
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The estimated value of the project is a massive ₹550 crore.
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ORERA found that the builder began selling plots in November 2024, using social media advertisements to attract buyers.
Violations of RERA Act
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ORERA held the promoter guilty of violating Section 3 and Section 17 of the Odisha Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016.
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The builder failed to obtain:
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Layout approval from Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA)
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Registration of the project with ORERA
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An ORERA technical team conducted a site visit and found that more than 30% of the plots had already been sold, despite the project lacking legal clearance.
ORERA’s Order
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ORERA’s three-member bench passed a strict order:
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The promoter must pay ₹2 crore within two months.
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The project must be registered under RERA within the same time frame.
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Failure to comply will invite further legal action.
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“The penalty will be realized as per law if not deposited on time,” the order said.
Warning for Homebuyers
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Real estate expert Bimalendu Pradhan criticized the violations.
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“Over 200 plot registrations were made without layout approval or ORERA registration. This reflects a systemic failure,” he said.
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He advised buyers to verify legal documents and approvals before purchasing plots.
What This Means for Buyers
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This case highlights the importance of RERA regulations in safeguarding buyer interests.
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Buyers are urged to:
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Check RERA registration status of any project.
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Demand layout approvals from development authorities.
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Avoid investing in projects advertised only on social media without clear documentation.
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ORERA’s penalty sends a strong message to realtors who bypass regulations. It is also a wake-up call for buyers to remain vigilant and legally informed before making real estate investments.
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#BhubaneswarRealEstate #ORERA #IllegalPlotting #RERAPenalty #OdishaHousing #RealEstateNews #PropertyAlert #BuyersBeware #LandScam #HaridamadaPlots #RERACompliance #UrbanDevelopment #BhubaneswarNews