While the Noida Authority went about its job, residents flagged bad blood between current and former AOAs
The Noida Authority on Thursday (August 8) demolished illegal constructions in Aditya Celebrity Homes, a residential high-rise in Sector 76. Residents of the society seemed divided over the Authority’s action. While a faction of residents was in favour, another group conducted a candle-light protest against the demolition activity.
Current AOA (Association of Apartment Owners) members of the society had complained to authorities against the former AOA body alleging illegal construction on society premises. Rahul Bose, General Secretary of the society’s current AOA, alleged that the former AOA body constructed a gym in the place of a storeroom despite having a gym in society's clubhouse. He further said that the storage area was meant for parking two-wheelers in society.
Bose also said that there were 10 illegal shops in the society along with a Big Basket vending machine inside the compound, setting up of which requires permission from the Authority. A platform for a temple was also constructed without permission. The AOA had received a notice for the platform.
Responding to residents’ complaints about illegal construction a few months back, the authority issued a notice to the AOA directing them to shut the 10 shops. In response, the former AOA said that they were not liable for the construction and maintenance of the shops and held the builder responsibly. They also said that it was up to the authority to initiate action. They also mentioned that the vending machine is installed for the welfare of residents.
Residents who did not support the demolition blamed the Authority for not issuing a prior notice. They were agitated as the bull-dozer started the demolition without vacating the building. One of the residents said that this happened due to the existing tension between the current and the former AOA.
