The apex court refused to interfere with the ongoing renovation and also declined the petitioner's request to transfer the matter to the National Green Tribunal (NGT), according to media reports.
Court says Mannat is a private property
Hearing the matter, the Supreme Court observed that Mannat is a private property and that the owners are entitled to renovate it in accordance with the legal framework.
The court, led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, rejected the plea seeking judicial intervention in the renovation work.
Petition alleged environmental violations
Mumbai resident and social activist Santosh Daundkar, the petitioner, had contended that the renovation was being carried out without obtaining all the mandatory statutory approvals and in violation of environmental regulations.
Appearing for the petitioner, Senior Advocate Shoaib Alam argued that approval from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) was mandatory before undertaking the project.
He further submitted that environmental clearance is a prerequisite for construction or redevelopment projects exceeding a specified financial threshold and alleged that the applicable legal provisions had not been followed.
Court declines request to refer matter to NGT
During the hearing, the petitioner's counsel urged the Supreme Court to remit the matter to the National Green Tribunal, which adjudicates environmental disputes.
However, the bench declined the request, reiterating that Mannat is a privately owned property and that any renovation undertaken in accordance with the law does not warrant the court's intervention.
About Mannat
Located in Mumbai's upscale Bandra neighbourhood overlooking the Arabian Sea, Mannat is one of the country's most recognisable celebrity residences. The sea-facing heritage bungalow, along with its multi-storey annexe, attracts thousands of fans every year hoping to catch a glimpse of Shah Rukh Khan during festive occasions and his birthday celebrations.
The actor and his family have lived at Mannat for over two decades, making it one of Mumbai's most iconic landmarks associated with Indian cinema.