Court Rejects Bollywood Actor Randeep Hooda's Construction Plea Near Kanha Tiger Reserve

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has dismissed Bollywood actor Randeep Hooda's petition to halt coercive actions against him for alleged illegal construction near the Kanha Tiger Reserve. The court stated that the issue is a fact-based dispute not suitable for judicial review and directed that proceedings be decided by local authorities based on the evidence.

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has dismissed a petition by Bollywood actor Randeep Hooda to prevent coercive action regarding alleged illegal construction on his property near the Kanha Tiger Reserve.

The court, led by Justice GS Ahluwalia, stated that Hooda's plea couldn't be maintained, rejecting his request to quash a show-cause notice related to the alleged construction.

The High Court clarified that the case's merits or the defense points raised by Hooda were not considered, with the Sub Divisional Officer (Revenue) in Balaghat district directed to decide based on evidence collected.

The SDO issued a notice to Hooda on June 18, demanding immediate cessation of construction work lacking mandatory clearances. Hooda appeared before the officer on June 19 but later approached the High Court. The government's lawyer deemed Hooda's appeal premature, citing no adverse order against him until date.

If Hooda requests a copy of the enquiry report or spot inspection, the High Court mandated that these be satisfied within specific timelines. Subsequent non-compliance would result in the complaint's observations losing effect. If a spot inspection occurs, and Hooda's party fails to participate, he cannot contest the process's integrity later on.

The High Court emphasized the SDO must resolve the show-cause notice within 15 days post spot inspection report, while Hooda retains the right to appeal if a final order is issued.

(With inputs from agencies.)