West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has directed civic authorities to adopt a humane and legally compliant approach while dealing with illegal constructions in the state, instructing officials to ensure adequate notice and time for affected residents before carrying out demolition drives.

According to Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) sources, the Chief Minister conveyed his remarks during a review meeting with officials of Borough-9 in the Alipore area held on Saturday. During the meeting, Adhikari reportedly expressed dissatisfaction over the manner in which demolition actions were being carried out, particularly in parts of Tiljala and Topsia, where residents were allegedly given limited time to vacate their premises.

Officials said concerns were raised regarding procedural compliance, including whether proper notices were issued and whether due legal process was followed before initiating demolition activities. The Chief Minister sought clarification from senior officials, including the Director General of the Building Department, Ujjwal Sarkar, over the enforcement actions taken in these areas.

Also Read: Heatwave Intensifies Across North India, Authorities Warn Of Continued High Temperatures

The issue also reached the judiciary, with the Calcutta High Court issuing an interim stay on certain demolition notices. The court observed that even in cases involving illegal constructions, authorities must strictly follow due process, including issuing proper notices and providing affected parties with a fair opportunity to respond before any action is taken.

In light of both administrative and judicial observations, the Chief Minister reiterated that while the government remains firm on removing illegal constructions, enforcement must be carried out in a humane manner. He stressed that families should not be subjected to sudden eviction and that sufficient time must be granted to residents to make alternative arrangements in accordance with the law.

Adhikari also instructed civic bodies to strengthen monitoring mechanisms, ensure timely issuance of notices from the early stages of unauthorized construction, and conduct regular inspections across Kolkata. He clarified that these directives apply across the city and are not limited to any single constituency, signalling a broader push for more structured and legally sound enforcement in future demolition drives.

Also Read: TMC Legislative Meeting Cancelled After Low Attendance at Kolkata Residence