The Delhi government has ordered a full‑scale probe into alleged irregularities where building plans for residential, commercial and group housing projects were sanctioned without the mandatory Infrastructure Development Charge (IFC). Jal Board Minister Parvesh Verma disclosed that preliminary data show the payment amount recorded as “zero” for around 300 properties covering more than 3,000 sq m.

Background and Fiscal Context

IFC is levied on new constructions and redevelopment projects to fund water‑supply and sewerage infrastructure. Although the state reduced IFC rates by up to 70 % earlier in 2026 to ease the burden on owners, the alleged waivers bypassed the payment mechanism entirely, potentially costing the exchequer billions of rupees.

Scope of the Investigation

The probe will examine building plan approvals issued by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) over the past ten years, with particular focus on the last five and one year. Investigators will also assess the involvement of senior engineers from the Delhi Jal Board, many of whom are approaching retirement, and MCD officials who may have facilitated the irregularities.

Potential Consequences and Policy Outlook

Property owners found to have secured approvals without settling the IFC could receive formal notices, be subject to recovery proceedings, and in case of continued non‑payment, face sealing of the premises. The government stresses that while the reduced rates aim to simplify compliance, strict enforcement will be applied to those who circumvented the system.

Looking ahead, officials promise tighter oversight and the deployment of a digital verification platform that will instantly confirm IFC payments before any building plan can be cleared, thereby safeguarding public revenue and ensuring equitable development.