Panchkula: ‘Forum ordered compensation but still awaiting word from HUDA’

Initially, Sangwan wrote to HUDA expressing inability to start construction. Sangwan says that he got the plot transferred in his name later in order to withdraw money from his Provident Fund to pay instalments. He then paid the entire amount to HUDA. In August 2014, he submitted the application and forms for issuance of possession of the plot.

“I was told that the possession cannot be given as the process of demarcation was not complete. I asked HUDA officials if this was the case, why they had taken the possession fee and fine from me. I visited the HUDA office several times and gave representations. I live in a government house and will be retiring in a few years. I wanted that the construction of my house should be completed before that,” says Sangwan.

Not getting any relief, he moved the consumer forum in August last year. Sangwan says, “Within a few months of my approaching the consumer forum, I was given possession of the plot even though the case was still on. The order was pronounced in February this year. The consumer forum has directed HUDA that Rs 1 lakh should be paid as compensation for the harassment suffered by me. Further, interest at the rate of 12 per cent by the amount deposited by me till the delivery of possession. However, I am still awaiting any word from HUDA on this.”

HUDA officials contend that the complainant does not fall within the ambit of consumer as he is a re-allottee of the plot. It was further stated that the complainant has already got the benefit of appreciation of the price of the plot and even possession interest also not being charged on the instalments prior to offer of possession.

Sangwan adds that his advocate has told him that HUDA might approach the state consumer redressal forum instead of giving compensation to him. If that happens, he will continue his fight till he gets his due.

“I had to attend four to five hearings in the consumer forum before the order was announced. After around 12 years, I finally got possession of my plot. However, considering the harassment we had to face, the monetary compensation should have been more,” he says.