Ranchi, July 15: The Ranchi Municipal Corporation (RMC) has launched a multi-pronged enforcement drive against alleged misuse of government housing, illegal commercial activities and encroachments, issuing notices to 232 beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) for reportedly renting out their allotted flats in the Light House Project residential complex at Dhurwa.
The action follows complaints that several beneficiaries had illegally leased out houses allotted under the Centre’s flagship housing scheme. A preliminary inquiry conducted by the civic body found that many allottees were not residing in the flats and had instead rented them to others, defeating the purpose of the welfare programme.
The RMC said renting out houses allotted under PMAY (Urban) is a violation of Clause 16 of the scheme’s Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). Beneficiaries have been directed to submit proof of residence within 24 hours, failing which proceedings for cancellation of their house allotments will be initiated.
In a statement, the Municipal Corporation said, “Renting out allotted houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) is a clear violation of Clause 16 of the scheme’s SOP. Under no circumstances will misuse of the scheme, illegal tenancy of housing, or violation of rules be tolerated. Strict action will continue in such cases as per the rules.”
The notice issued to beneficiaries further stated, “Beneficiaries must submit proof of residence within 24 hours. Failure to provide satisfactory proof within the stipulated time will result in initiation of proceedings to cancel the allotment of the respective house.”
As part of the enforcement campaign, the civic body also sealed two commercial establishments—Anna Fast Food and Payal Collection on Harmu Road—for operating without valid trade licences.
In another case, the basement parking area of the Damor Furniture building was found to be used as a warehouse. The corporation served a notice directing the building management to immediately remove the stored goods and restore the basement for its designated use as a parking facility.
Meanwhile, the RMC carried out a major anti-encroachment drive along Harmu Road to ensure smooth traffic movement and reclaim public spaces. During the operation, notices were issued to 12 institutions, shops and buildings for encroachments on setback areas and gift deed land.
A tea stall operating on the gift deed land of the Pentagon Building was also directed to remove the encroachment immediately. The enforcement team further cleared encroachments from roads and drains in front of around 20 shops as part of the drive.
The Municipal Corporation said the enforcement measures would continue in the coming days to ensure compliance with civic regulations and prevent misuse of public infrastructure and government welfare schemes.
