In Brief
DLF purchased land in a coastal area of Kerala and commenced construction of a residential complex after obtaining municipal permits, but without waiting for environmental and CRZ clearances. The Kerala Coastal Management Authority challenged the project for alleged violations including reclamation of water bodies and construction in a protected zone. After years of contradictory reports from various authorities, SEIAA ultimately granted environmental clearance in 2013. The High Court found extensive violations and ordered demolition; on appeal, it permitted regularisation with a fine. The Supreme Court held that while the procedural violation (lack of prior clearance) was established, major substantive violations could not be proven due to unclear evidence and regulatory authority failures. The Court regularised the project, sustained the Rs. 1 crore fine as compensation for the procedural violation, and directed authorities to improve future compliance procedures and timeliness."
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