Section 26 is the primary penal clause for unauthorised development and misuse of land and buildings. Sub‑section (1) targets any person or body, including government departments, who undertakes or carries out development in contravention of the master or zonal plan, without the permission referred to in Section 14, or in violation of the conditions of such permission. For such contraventions, the present maximum fine extends to fifty thousand rupees, with an additional daily fine that may extend to two thousand five hundred rupees for every day the offence continues after the first conviction.[5][4]

Sub‑section (2) addresses misuse of land and buildings by penalising use in contravention of Section 16 or contrary to terms and conditions prescribed under its proviso. The maximum fine for such misuse is twenty‑five thousand rupees, with a further fine that may extend to one thousand two hundred and fifty rupees per day for continuing contravention after conviction. These enhanced figures reflect amendments intended to make penalties economically significant in the context of modern land values.[9][1][4][2]

Sub‑section (3) criminalises obstruction of authorised entry under Section 25 or molestation of the authorised person after entry. The punishment prescribed is imprisonment up to six months, or fine up to one thousand rupees, or both, signalling that physical obstruction of enforcement staff is treated more seriously than mere regulatory contravention. In practice, authorities often invoke Section 26 alongside demolition, stoppage or sealing powers to create both penal and coercive consequences for unauthorised development.[10][4][11][6]