Dear Friends,

With an intention to own a piece of land for myself, I had approached a developer 3 years back, after looking at an advertisement. Post site visit, as per the formalities, I made 25% of the agreed amount for purchase of the plot. Few months passed by and I was informed that the conversion of land has still not happened and it will take a while. But during the initial discussion stages, I was informed that the land is good for registration, which would happen in the next 6 months.

Its been 3 years now and the developer mentions that progress on conversion of land is unlikely to happen and I was prompted to take the money back as refund, without any additional compensation. Though I did not agree initially to apply for refund, I later decided 3 months back to take my money back.

After 1.5 months of me giving the letter, I was given a post-dated refund cheque, which was dated 1 month ahead. After waiting patiently, I presented the cheque on the right date, only to see that the cheque bounce. Later discussing with the developer, he asked me to wait and present it on another date. The cheque bounced 2nd time too. Finally, I am being given another date, for presenting the cheque 3rd time, I am not sure that it would get cleared or not.

I am in a dilemma now. Pls. help me how can I get out of the situation.

At times I feel that I should be compensated from the developer for holding my money for 3 years and not allocating me the plot. But, the present situation indicates, that it would be wise to get the money back and then think about the next steps.

Is there a way that these people can be brought to books? Pls. provide your valuable inputs. Thanks.