CM to meet tenants groups

In their petition, the Property Owners8217; Association had demanded the interim Rent Act to be struck down. The interim act which has provided for a five per cent hike in rent will expire on March 31, 1999 and the state has to introduce a final bill before that. The new draft bill based on the recommendation of the joint select committee is learnt to have proposed a five per cent hike every successive year. But it is now learnt that the state may consider a greater increase.

Thousands of tenants have expressed fearsthat the state may accept the National Model Law suggesstions which weigh in favour of the landlords and receommends a 22-fold hike in rent. Though it is not binding on the state to follow the model law, sources say that the state counsel gave the court in writing that they would consider the model law.

However, in a recent meeting with tenants, Purohit had assured that their demands and suggesstions would be heard and incorporated. The Action Committee for Protection of Tenants8217; Right will also be intervening in the petition in the Supreme Court when it is expected to come up for hearing on January 25.