Residents of Birla Vanya in Kalyan West held a peaceful protest alleging lack of transparency after 24 months’ maintenance funds were reportedly exhausted in 14 months, demanding a CA-certified audit and clarity on expenses
Residents of Birla Vanya in Khadakpada, Kalyan West, stage a silent protest satyagraha inside the society premises on Saturday. Pic/By Special Arrangement
Residents of Birla Vanya in Khadakpada, Kalyan West, held a peaceful satyagraha on April 11, alleging a lack of transparency in the utilisation of maintenance funds collected by the developer.
The protest follows claims that nearly 24 months of advance maintenance collected from residents were exhausted within 14 months, without a Chartered Accountant-certified audit or a detailed statement of expenditure being shared.
Residents had submitted a formal letter to the senior police inspector on April 9, informing authorities about the planned silent protest. The agitation was conducted without slogans or disruption to public order. “We are not refusing to pay, but we need clarity on where the money has been spent,” said a resident.
Demand for accountability
Residents have sought
>> A Chartered Accountant-certified audit of maintenance funds
>> A complete bifurcation of expenses
>> A halt on further charges until financial transparency is ensured
A society member, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “The builder’s representative offered a temporary solution by saying they will discuss it with us, but we want a permanent solution so we can live in our home peacefully.”
Builder responds
Responding to the protest, Birla Vanya’s sales national head, Ankit Agarwal, said, “The members held a silent protest but they have withdrawn it now, and we will meet with them to clarify. On Saturday, we will discuss this with all members and try to resolve the issue.”
Next course of action
Residents said that if their concerns are not addressed satisfactorily, they may approach the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority.
Timeline of events
>> Advance maintenance collected: Approximately 24 months
>> Funds reportedly exhausted: Within 14 months
>> Police informed: April 9
>> Silent protest held: April 11
Wider context
The dispute reflects a broader pattern of conflicts between homebuyers and developers across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region over maintenance charges, fund utilisation, and financial transparency.
Maintenance dispute? Here’s what the law says
>> Audit is your right: Builders must provide a CA-certified statement of maintenance funds
>> Separate account mandatory: Maintenance funds cannot be mixed with the builder’s business accounts
>> Charges must be reasonable: Arbitrary or excessive demands are not permitted under RERA
>> Society formation: Must be completed within stipulated timelines; delays can invite legal action
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