(1) (a) After the coming into force of this chapter 1[x x x]1, no construction or reconstruction of a building shall 1[x x x]1 be begun by any person unless and until permission for the execution of the work relating to such construction or reconstruction is granted to such person 1[x x x]1 by the licensing authority.
1. Omitted by Act 34 of 1984 w.e.f. 26.6.1984
(b) No person shall collect any rent or other charges, by whatever name called, from the occupant of any building constructed or reconstructed in contravention of clause (a).
(2) Any person who contravenes the provisions of sub-section (1) or who abets such contravention shall, on conviction, be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years and with fine which may extend to five thousand rupees.
Provided that,-
(i) in the case of a first offence the term of imprisonment shall not be less than six months and the amount of fine shall not be less than five hundred rupees; and
(ii) in the case of a second or subsequent offence the term of imprisonment shall not be less than one year and the amount of fine shall not be less than one thousand rupees.