In a significant consumer protection move, the Telangana Real Estate Regulatory Authority (TGRERA) has issued an interim order restraining Vajra Prekon Estates and its marketing associate FMG Property Floor from selling or transferring ownership of a plot in its Balaji Gardens (Mithila E-City) project in Maheshwaram. The directive comes following a complaint filed by a homebuyer, Mounika Jonnavittula, who alleged that despite paying nearly ₹38 lakhs in full, the developer failed to register the property in her name.
Complaint Highlights
Mounika Jonnavittula approached TGRERA with documented evidence showing that she had fully paid for Plot No. 136 in the Balaji Gardens (Mithila E-City) project, which is a RERA-registered layout. She submitted a payment receipt and a formal agreement from the developer promising registration of the plot by December 31, 2024.
However, when the promised registration failed to materialize, the developer issued a post-dated cheque as a refund measure. The cheque was dishonored due to the bank account being blocked, causing further distress to the buyer.
Developer’s Response
Vajra Prekon Estates and FMG Property Floor appeared before the TGRERA during the proceedings. The developer stated that ownership of the land was complex and involved multiple landowners, which had delayed the registration process. They claimed to have made efforts to complete the registration but cited unresolved legal entanglements.
TGRERA’s Observation and Interim Order
After reviewing the documents and hearing both parties, TGRERA held that the buyer’s claim was genuine and substantial. It observed that there was a significant risk of the developer attempting to resell the same plot to another party, which could result in legal complications and financial loss to the complainant.
As an interim measure, the authority passed an order prohibiting any sale, transfer, or alienation of Plot No. 136 until the matter is fully resolved. The final hearing in the case is scheduled for June 12, 2025.
Impact of the Order
The interim relief provided by TGRERA sets a precedent in consumer protection in Telangana’s real estate sector. It underscores the importance of project registration and regulatory oversight under RERA. The authority’s intervention prevents fraudulent re-sales and reinforces buyer confidence in RERA’s dispute resolution mechanisms.
Conclusion
This case highlights the critical role of state RERA authorities in safeguarding the interests of real estate consumers. It also emphasizes the need for due diligence by developers and transparent practices when dealing with land ownership and registration issues.
