The Telangana Real Estate Regulatory Authority (TGRERA) has ordered Bhrigu Infra to refund ₹20 lakh to an investor who had made a payment for a villa plot under the company’s ‘Bird of Paradise’ project in Thimmapur village, Rangareddy district. Despite assurances and an HMDA (Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority) approval letter, Bhrigu Infra failed to register the plot in the investor’s name, leaving the investor without possession or formal ownership.
The investor, who had been enticed by the agent representing Bhrigu Infra, paid ₹20 lakh upfront for a 240 square yard plot at ₹16,000 per square yard. While initial promises indicated that the registration would be completed swiftly, the process was repeatedly delayed, and the company became unresponsive. After several attempts to contact the firm, it was revealed that unresolved legal disputes with the landowner were the primary reason for the delay. However, this failure to resolve the issue in a timely manner prompted the investor to file a complaint with TGRERA.
Following an in-depth review, TGRERA not only mandated a refund of ₹20 lakh with 10.85% interest but also imposed a ₹39,600 penalty on Bhrigu Infra for violating Section 10 of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, which prohibits the sale of unregistered projects. The authority further directed the company to cease all sales and marketing activities related to unregistered projects, with warnings of additional penalties for any future violations. This decision underscores TGRERA’s focus on protecting homebuyers and enforcing real estate regulations. It also highlights the importance of investor vigilance and legal compliance in the sector. The case also reflects the growing demand for transparency and accountability, as consumers continue to seek stronger safeguards in the face of ongoing challenges in the real estate market.
