India, June 17 -- The Bombay High Court has allowed a book manufacturer to continue to operate from rented premises in a dilapidated building in Sewri, but at its own risk. In the event the building collapses, the landlord or the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) will not be held responsible for any loss of life or property, the court said. It added that the book manufacturer would be responsible if any loss or damage is suffered by third parties due to such an untoward incident.

Janata Book Manufacturing Depot had approached the court after the BMC disconnected water and electricity supply to the building, claiming that the ground-plus-one storey structure was "dangerously dilapidated". The book manufacturer, which occupied the g...