Noida: Residents of the SDS NRI Township in Sector 26A are expressing their frustration after being asked by their developer to pay an additional ₹10 lakh each. This demand, attributed to “extra farmers’ compensation” of ₹8,746 per square meter, has sparked outrage among the homebuyers, who argue that the charges are not only excessive but also unfair. In response, they have initiated protests against SDS Infracon, the developer in question.

The developer defends the additional charges, citing a Supreme Court ruling that allows for such compensation to be passed on to buyers. Meanwhile, the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) has stated that it will investigate the situation and take necessary actions. Approximately 1,450 homebuyers are currently distressed over the developer’s demands.

Tarun Sharma, General Secretary of the NRI Township Yamuna Plot Owners Association, voiced the buyers’ concerns, stating, “The realtor is asking for four times the originally agreed amount at a time when we lack basic services like electricity, water, and roads. We refuse to pay this additional fee and will continue our protests while seeking assistance from YEIDA.”

Homebuyers contend that they should not bear the financial burden resulting from the developer’s delays in payments. They have appealed to both YEIDA and the Uttar Pradesh government for intervention, demanding immediate plot registrations and essential services. Although YEIDA has issued temporary completion certificates for around 500 plots, many buyers are still unable to start construction due to ongoing infrastructure issues, with 900 buyers still waiting for plot registrations.

SDS Infracon recently communicated with homebuyers, explaining that the additional compensation has been a contentious legal issue. The developer referenced a Supreme Court decision from May 19, 2022, which favored YEIDA. In their letter, the developer emphasized that under the tripartite sub-lease agreement, plot allottees are responsible for these additional costs based on their plot size.

On Sunday, Devesh Kumar, the legal advisor for the developer, reiterated that they have informed homebuyers about the additional payments mandated by the court order. He acknowledged that YEIDA has yet to provide some essential civic amenities, stating that the developer will fulfill its obligations once these services are in place.

Homebuyers view these charges as an unfair financial burden, especially given the underdeveloped state of the township. They have raised concerns regarding YEIDA’s issuance of completion certificates and plot registrations without ensuring the availability of necessary services. Despite fulfilling their financial obligations, buyers feel that the developer continues to profit without delivering on its commitments.

The NRI Township Yamuna Plot Owners Association has made urgent requests to YEIDA, including the reopening of plot registrations, immediate provision of electricity and clean water, and protection from unjust financial penalties. The General Secretary emphasized the need for government policies to prevent developers from imposing additional costs on buyers when they are not at fault, insisting that the township must be fully developed as promised.

The buyers are scheduled to meet with YEIDA CEO Arun Vir Singh next week to address these issues. Singh assured, “We will investigate and take appropriate action.”