In a strong and direct message to cooperative housing societies across Mumbai, senior BJP leader Vivekanand Gupta has raised serious concerns over the alleged collection of illegal fees from residents in the name of obtaining Occupation Certificates (OC).
He warned that societies demanding extra money beyond official charges could face strict legal consequences.
⚠️ Illegal Charges in the Name of OC
Gupta highlighted that several housing societies are reportedly collecting hefty sums from flat owners, claiming it is required for securing Occupation Certificates. However, he clarified that such collections are unauthorised and unlawful if not part of the official civic payment structure.
Residents, he said, must not be pressured into paying arbitrary amounts imposed by managing committees.
🚔 FIRs to Be Filed Against Responsible Office-Bearers
Taking a firm stand, Gupta announced that FIRs will be registered against society office-bearers found involved in illegal collections. He emphasized that managing committees have no legal authority to demand additional OC-related charges from members.
Residents facing such demands have been encouraged to come forward and file complaints.
💻 OC Fees Must Be Paid Directly to BMC
Clarifying the official procedure, Gupta stated that OC payments must be made directly through the online system of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation.
The process is designed to be transparent and digitally recorded. Any payment collected outside the official civic platform is considered suspicious and potentially illegal.
❌ No Agents or Middlemen Authorised
He also cautioned residents against dealing with middlemen claiming to “speed up” the OC process. According to him, no agents have been appointed by the authorities to collect such payments.
Any person demanding money on behalf of municipal authorities should be treated with caution.
🏛️ Policy Still Awaiting Final Approval
Gupta mentioned that the OC-related policy is currently pending approval from the relevant civic committees. Until it is formally notified, housing societies cannot independently impose financial demands under the pretext of regularisation.
🏘️ Goregaon Case Raises Alarm
The issue gained attention after a case in Goregaon, where a housing society allegedly collected ₹75,000 per member for OC purposes. Gupta warned that if such money is not refunded, police action may follow.
🛡️ Assurance to Mumbaikars
On behalf of the Bharatiya Janata Party, Gupta assured residents that the party stands committed to protecting citizens from financial exploitation. He stressed the need for transparency, accountability, and fairness in housing matters across the city.
📰 BJP Leader Warns Against Illegal OC Fee Collection by Housing Societies in Mumbai 🚨🏢