Chandigarh: Thousands of residents living in cooperative house-building societies across Chandigarh continue to face delays over unresolved policy and property-related issues. The disputes have left many residents paying higher charges and waiting to convert their properties from leasehold to freehold.
Residents have also raised concerns over water bills. In some cases, bills are reportedly several times higher than the normal rate because completion certificates have not been issued.
Chandigarh Cooperative Housing Disputes Continue
Representatives of cooperative housing societies say prolonged delays have created a substantial financial burden for residents. They have raised concerns over conversion charges, unearned increase and the issuance of completion certificates.
According to society representatives, several matters have remained pending with the Chandigarh Administration and Chandigarh Housing Board (CHB) for the past four to five years.
Residents say repeated representations have not resulted in a final resolution of several issues. The continuing uncertainty has also affected property rights and increased the financial pressure on allottees.
Conversion Charges Become a Major Issue
One of the main concerns relates to the calculation of conversion charges.
Society representatives allege that the Chandigarh Housing Board is using an incorrect formula under the 1996 conversion policy. They argue that cooperative house-building societies should fall under Clause (iii) of Part II of the policy.
According to their interpretation, this clause applies to 100 per cent of the allotted area.
Residents allege that CHB is instead applying Clause (i). Under this calculation, the allotted area is multiplied by 1.2.
Society representatives say this calculation can increase conversion charges by up to 30 per cent. They have sought clarification and a review of the method used to calculate the charges.
Completion Certificates Add to Residents’ Burden
The absence of completion certificates has created another major concern for residents.
According to society representatives, delays in issuing these certificates have contributed to higher water bills for some households. In certain cases, residents claim that the bills are nearly four times the normal rate.
The issue has added to the financial burden faced by residents who are already dealing with disputed charges and delays in property conversion.
Residents Seek Resolution of Pending Issues
Cooperative housing society representatives want the administration and CHB to resolve the pending policy matters.
They have been seeking clarity on conversion charges, unearned increase and completion certificates. Residents also want a transparent and consistent approach to the implementation of the 1996 conversion policy.
The prolonged disputes have created uncertainty for thousands of allottees. They say a timely resolution could reduce financial pressure and help residents secure clearer property rights.
The matter remains a significant concern for Chandigarh’s cooperative housing societies as residents continue to wait for the administration and CHB to address their outstanding demands.
