Landmark hotel gives nightmares

The tenants’ nightmarish experiences began last year, when they got together to take up the matter with Shahab, who did not like the idea. He allegedly sent goons and threatened the complaining tenants. Lewd remarks were passed against women and attempts to molest were also alleged. “We also receive threatening calls warning our sons to keep away,” said Rashida in her early fifties.

According to the chairman of the Vazir building tenants’ association, Anwar Ahmed, “Shahab bhai had closed the emergency exit and made the building a virtual fire trap.” The owner, however, dismissed the allegation.

Regarding allegations that smoke from the kitchen enters apartments, Shahab said, “It is utter nonsense. There is no smoke. I have ensured that there is absolutely no pollution near the building.” He also denies allegations of molestation attempts and threats to the women folk in the building.

Complaints at three police stations and the ward office failed to elicit any response prompting the tenants to accuse B’ ward officers of collusion with the hotelier.

A vigilance team from BMC visited the building on Tuesday. However, the team has remained tight-lipped about their findings.

Speaking to Express Newsline, Shahab denied flouting any rules. “The allegations are made by vested interests in the building,” he added.