Mantri attempts to subvert moves to halt construction

In a blatant attempt to influence public opinion with false information and subvert the moves of the Lok Adalat and the BMP, Mantri Builders, through an obscure organization called the KOAPA (Karnataka Owners' Apartments Promoters Association) issued ads in leading newspapers that the project was certified as legal by the KOAPA. What is the KOAPA's locus standi?

This was followed up by a press release which the Times of India, quite in line with its journalistic standards, has reproduced it verbatim as a news report, without bothering to question the credentials of the KOAPA:

Building on tank bed is OK
TIMES NEWS NETWORK

Bangalore: The Karnataka Ownership Apartment Promoters’ Association (KOAPA) on Thursday said there is nothing illegal with the proposed apartment building near the Sankey Tank.
Developers of the property, Mantri Developers, who are members of the KOAPA, had approached the BCC for permission and no construction is underway at present, KOAPA has stated.

“We have inspected the property and found nothing illegal in the project. Mantri Developers have sought permission from the BCC for the construction of a building and until such permission is obtained, we will ensure that there won’t be any construction work,” president of the association, B.M. Jayeshankar, has stated.

“As far as the proposed building’s environment-friendliness is concerned, we understand that the builders have approached the department of environment for necessary approvals. Mantri Developers have assured us that no work will commence until all required permissions and clearances are obtained,” said Sanjay Gandhi, the secretary of the association.