New Delhi, April 14 (IANS) The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) registered 22 new cases based on the Supreme Court directions against various builders over their alleged nexus with officials of financial institutions and defrauding of homebuyers, an official said on Tuesday.

The CBI conducted extensive searches at 77 locations spread across eight states/Union Territories in connection with these 22 cases, an official statement said.

The searches were targeted at an alleged nexus between certain builders and officials of financial institutions, leading to the cheating and defrauding of unsuspecting homebuyers.

“These coordinated search operations, conducted across different states, are part of a nationwide crackdown,” the central agency said.

“Searches have resulted in the seizure of incriminating documents, digital devices and other materials, which are being examined,” it added.

“The action is aimed at gathering evidence to unravel the larger conspiracy involving alleged diversion of funds, financial irregularities, and fraudulent practices in the housing real estate sector,” it said.

The CBI had earlier registered 28 cases against various builders in compliance with the Supreme Court’s directions. They are under final stages of investigation.

With Tuesday’s action, the central agency has registered a total of 50 cases on the apex court’s directions.

The CBI, in a statement, reiterated its commitment in conducting a fair, impartial, and expeditious investigation to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice and safeguard the interests of affected homebuyers.

The Supreme Court has ruled in favour of homebuyers on several occasions.

In 2023, the top court had said that suffer the impact of “unholy nexus of builders and planners”, when the latter breach their obligation to ensure compliance with building regulations according to the law.

The top court made this observation while directing the demolition of 40-storey twin-towers of Emerald Court, constructed by real estate company Supertech in Uttar Pradesh’s Noida.

The apex court said construction of twin towers was violative of the minimum distance requirement and emphasised that the purpose of stipulating a minimum distance is a matter of public interest in planned development.

–IANS

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