KMC Demolishes Illegal Towers Tied to Local Leaders

In a high-profile enforcement action, Kolkata Municipal Corporation teams razed three unauthorized multi-storey buildings in Tiljala, Kasba, and Beliaghata on Sunday. The structures allegedly belonged to or benefited individuals linked to the ruling Trinamool Congress, prompting immediate political ripples. Commissioner Smita Pandey stated that the demolitions followed due legal process after repeated warnings under Section 400(1) of the municipal act. Police and paramilitary personnel secured the sites to prevent clashes. Owners had been given time to voluntarily remove the illegal portions, yet construction continued in at least two blocks until the final order was executed. Minister Agni Mitra Paul confirmed that a parallel inquiry will examine why civic inspectors failed to halt work after December site visits flagged the violations. She added that both the builders and the officials who overlooked the breaches will be held accountable. The minister emphasized that the crackdown is not limited to these three sites and will extend to every ward where similar complaints exist. Civic engineers have begun documenting every stage of the demolition for future legal reference. Residents say the sudden visibility of enforcement has created both relief and apprehension, as many fear their own properties may be next on the list. The administration plans to publish weekly progress reports to maintain transparency during the ongoing campaign.