The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has approached its Standing Committee for approval to implement a severe penalty against a retired Deputy Chief Engineer (Planning & Designs) in connection with the 2013 Babu Genu market building collapse. The incident, which occurred on September 27, 2013, at Dockyard Road, resulted in 61 deaths and 32 injuries. The five-storey building, owned by the BMC, was declared dilapidated and in urgent need of repairs before it crumbled.
Background of the Case
Following the collapse, several BMC engineers, including the Deputy Chief Engineer, were arrested. A comprehensive departmental inquiry was initiated based on an order from the then Municipal Commissioner in October 2014. The inquiry found that one charge against the official was partially proven, while another was fully proven. Consequently, in September 2024, the Municipal Commissioner decided to impose a penalty reducing the official's basic pension by 50% per month for eight years.
Legal and Procedural Developments
Since the Deputy Chief Engineer had retired, a show-cause notice was served. The Municipal Commissioner issued a final order on April 25, 2025, directing the pension reduction. However, on April 11, 2025, the official informed the BMC Enquiry Department that the Sessions Court had discharged him in the criminal case on March 11, 2025. Despite this development, the Municipal Commissioner upheld the punishment and issued a confirmatory order on September 14, 2025.
As per BMC regulations, implementing such a penalty requires approval from the Standing Committee. The proposal will be presented before the committee on Monday. Notably, before the collapse, the building was classified as 'Class C2 (B)' dilapidated and was in urgent need of repairs. Illegal alterations were also being carried out, contributing to the disaster.
This case highlights the long legal and administrative processes involved in holding officials accountable for negligence leading to loss of life.
