Supreme Court Directs Maharashtra Government to Approve Land Transfer for New Bombay High Court Building

The Supreme Court has instructed the Maharashtra government to finalize the transfer of land at Bandra-Kurla complex to the Bombay High Court by September 7 for its new building. The top court emphasized the urgency of the project, noting it as “vital” to avoid election-related delays. Furthermore, the state is required to provide necessary funds and additional land as per the high court's needs.

The Supreme Court on Thursday mandated the Maharashtra government to formalize the transfer of land at the Bandra-Kurla complex to the Bombay High Court by September 7, facilitating the construction of a new court building. This directive comes as part of a suo motu case addressing the urgent need for additional accommodation, given the 150-year-old heritage building currently in use.

A special bench comprising Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud and Justices B R Gavai and J B Pardiwala declared the project "vital," ensuring its exemption from disruptions due to the upcoming assembly polls. The court also instructed the state to release funds promptly once the possession is transferred, to modify the premises as required by the high court.

Additionally, the state government is on track to hand over 4.39 acres by September 10, with the remaining 30.46 acres to follow according to a phased timeline. The Supreme Court has asked for expedited coordination involving the Bank of India for temporary facility usage and directed shortlisted architects to finalize the building design.

(With inputs from agencies.)