India, July 16 -- The Bombay High Court has asked the Maharashtra government to frame guidelines regarding alterations that residents can make in their flats without seeking the local authority's permission, saying it was necessary to encourage citizens to abide by the law.

A division bench of justices AS Gadkari and Kamal Khata sought clarity on whether changes such as installing protective grills and coverings over open terraces, amalgamating or dividing areas using lightweight materials, and reallocating utility areas are permissible.

The bench was hearing a petition filed by Panvel resident Ravindra Kini, who claimed that the Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC) was not acting on his complaints regarding unauthorised alterations made ...