BMC Secures Rs 660-Crore Land After SC Verdict

Mumbai, Lower Parel: In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court (SC) has reaffirmed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) ownership of a six-acre land parcel in Lower Parel. The SC dismissed a petition by Century Textiles & Industries Limited, ensuring the property’s return to the civic body.

Valued at approximately ₹660 crores as per 2024-2025 Ready Reckoner rates, the land, spanning 30,550 square meters, was initially leased in 1927 to M/s Century Spinning and Manufacturing Limited (now Century Textiles & Industries Limited) for 28 years. The lease, meant to provide housing for workers, expired in 1955. However, instead of surrendering the land, Century Textiles sought to transfer ownership to themselves, leading to a prolonged legal battle.

The Bombay High Court had earlier ruled in favor of Century Textiles in 2022. The BMC, challenging this decision, filed a Special Leave Petition with the SC, resulting in a final ruling on January 7, 2025. Following this, civic officials, including Deputy Municipal Commissioner Sanjog Kabre and G/South Assistant Municipal Commissioner Mrudula Ande, conducted a site visit and began reclaiming the property.

This reclaimed land is now reserved for constructing homes for economically weaker sections, aligning with the BMC's commitment to public welfare.