A legal and civic dispute has intensified at Sai Kutir Cooperative Housing Society in Kopar Khairane, where 89 families have raised objections over alleged unauthorised commercial encroachment linked to a proposed hospital facility operating within the residential premises.
The controversy revolves around Life Spring Maternity and Multispeciality Hospital, with residents alleging that common areas of the society were modified and utilised for hospital-related activities without obtaining approval from society members. Residents also claimed they were not informed about the proposed hospital facility at the time of purchasing their flats.
According to society members and documents reviewed by Mid-Day, a common passage within the building was allegedly narrowed from 2.6 metres to 1.9 metres due to construction linked to the hospital office. Residents further alleged that portions of the first-floor lobby were converted into a patient waiting area, while spaces beneath staircases were being used for oxygen storage and utility infrastructure.
“We are not against legal commercial activities, provided they do not inconvenience residents or encroach upon common spaces meant for all families,” said resident Rajshri Patil.
Another resident, Jayashree Menon, stated, “If three non-members are allowed to use common areas for their personal commercial benefit, then tomorrow every other member may start claiming society spaces for private profit. There has to be one rule for everyone.”
Concerns escalated after residents alleged that ongoing construction activity on the first floor caused significant water seepage into the building’s electrical meter room. Videos circulated by residents reportedly showed water entering electrical ducts, raising fears of potential fire hazards and electrical accidents.
“Residents have cooperated for years with all lawful commercial activities, but now attempts are being made to pressure the society into accepting unauthorised usage of common spaces. The concern is about residents’ rights and safety,” said Taresh Varshney.
Residents further alleged that outsiders and security personnel were brought into the society premises during the ongoing dispute.
According to residents, an order issued by Mantralaya on January 29, 2026, had reportedly cancelled earlier permissions connected to the hospital project. However, they claimed that the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation and the Health Department later issued fresh notices in April.
Arvind Kadam said, “The builder cannot issue NOCs for permanent use of common areas after the Occupation Certificate without the consent of flat owners. This matter will be challenged before the appropriate legal forums until a logical and lawful conclusion is reached.”
Society secretary Rajiv Jain stated, “This is not a fight against business or healthcare services. The issue is whether common residential areas can be used for private commercial gain without approval from the majority of society members.”
NMMC Commissioner Dr Kailas Shinde said the matter is currently before the High Court, while Health Officer Dr Rajesh Mhatre stated that the hospital had received permission after submitting all required documents.
Source: Mid-day
