Lucknow: LDA To Auction Sahara Bazaar, Three Other Complexes; 350 Properties Also Listed

The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) will auction four city shopping complexes, including the disputed Sahara Bazaar, sparking protests from traders. The e-auction, scheduled for October 13, will also include 350 residential and commercial properties across the city. Registrations remain open until October 10.

The Sahara Bazaar dispute began after the lease on a 4,375 sq metre commercial plot near Polytechnic Chauraha in Vibhuti Khand, Gomti Nagar, expired on January 9, 2017. The plot, originally allotted to Sahara India Corporation in 1987 on a 30-year lease, was not renewed. On June 20, the LDA took possession of the property, and on 6 August, the complex was sealed.

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Traders allege that the authority acted without prior notice. Mohammad Rafiq, a shopkeeper operating there for 25 years, claimed his business was shut down abruptly. Another trader, JP Singh, said he holds a valid registry for his shop. The matter, involving property valued at around Rs 100 crore, is now pending in the High Court. Out of 150 shops in the complex, only 11 were found operational during LDA’s inspection.

The authority has accused Sahara India of selling shops despite holding only lease rights to the plot, leaving many shop owners in legal uncertainty. The LDA has assured that efforts will be made to provide relief to genuine shopkeepers.

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Along with Sahara Bazaar, the Ratankhand Shopping Complex (6,729 sq metres), Mansarovar Sector O Complex (1,586 sq metres), and Nehru Enclave Complex (4,992 sq metres) will also be auctioned. LDA Vice-Chairman said the auction provides an opportunity for buyers to acquire properties at prime city locations.