Demolition despite permission! Rooftop restaurant owners approach Calcutta HC

The future of several popular rooftop restaurants in Kolkata has come under threat as their owners face a sudden crackdown from the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC). The civic body recently issued demolition notices to more than 80 such establishments, prompting outrage among restaurateurs—many of whom claim they had valid permissions to operate.

Following the demolition of parts of several restaurant rooftops, a section of owners filed a petition in the Calcutta High Court on Monday. They argued that their rooftop operations were legally sanctioned, and questioned the municipality’s authority to raze structures without prior hearings or clarity. Justice Gaurang Kant has granted them permission to file the case, with a hearing expected this afternoon.

This legal battle follows a catastrophic fire last week in Barabazar that claimed 14 lives. In response, the state government and KMC initiated a stringent safety overhaul, particularly targeting rooftop venues, which are often packed and structurally altered. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee herself ordered that stairways and rooftops of commercial buildings be kept unobstructed at all times, citing fire safety.

The KMC acted quickly, issuing closure notices to 83 rooftop restaurants on Saturday. The civic body warned that any non-compliance would result in immediate demolition. True to their word, municipal workers began dismantling structures at some establishments even before court proceedings could begin.

Restaurateurs say the crackdown has left them blindsided and financially unstable. Several claim their permits were in place and that the sudden demolitions have jeopardized not only their businesses but the jobs of hundreds of staff. Many feel this sweeping action punishes compliant establishments alongside violators.

While the administration insists that public safety is paramount, affected business owners are urging the courts to weigh the legality of KMC’s actions. With peak summer tourism and festive months approaching, the outcome of this court case may shape the future of rooftop dining in the city.