Unauthorised construction notices: planning authority must hear the parties, consider replies, and pass reasoned orders in accordance with law.

Where alleged unauthorised construction had already been met with statutory show-cause notices, the Court directed the competent planning authority to complete the decision-making process in accordance with law. The noticees were required to submit their explanations within the time granted, and the authority was to consider those replies, afford a personal hearing, and pass reasoned orders on merits. A direct cancellation order was not granted; instead, the statutory process was left to the authority for expeditious disposal after hearing the parties.

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Issues: Whether directions could be issued to the planning authority to proceed against the alleged unauthorised construction and decide the matter after considering the show-cause notices.

Analysis: The petition concerned alleged unauthorised construction in an unapproved layout. The record showed that the planning authorities had already initiated action by issuing notices under the town planning law, and the affected persons had to be given an opportunity to explain their case. The Court therefore directed the noticees to submit their explanations within a specified time and required the second respondent to pass appropriate orders on merits and in accordance with law after affording personal hearing.

Conclusion: The prayer for a straight cancellation order was not granted, but the authorities were directed to complete the statutory process and decide the matter expeditiously.

Final Conclusion: The writ petition was disposed of with directions for consideration of the show-cause notices and passing of reasoned orders after hearing the parties.

Ratio Decidendi: When statutory notices have already been issued in respect of alleged unauthorised development, the Court may direct the competent authority to complete the decision-making process after providing an opportunity of hearing and to act in accordance with law.

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