A year after the Model Tenancy Act came into force; only four states have adopted it.
These four states i.e. Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and Assam have modified their tenancy laws as per the Model Tenancy Act.
Housing is a state subject under the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution. Therefore, this Act is only advisory to the states. State governments may consider adhering to this Act when regulating rental housing and agreements.
Model Tenancy Act
The law seeks to institutionalize rental housing by progressively making it a formal market.
Its three primary purposes:
- It aims to regulate the process of renting out residential and commercial premises. This law includes conditions for tenancy, eviction and management of property.
- The law proposes mechanisms to balance and protect the rights of landlords and tenants while regulating tenancy.
- The Act provides for a three-tier adjudication mechanism for speedy settlement of rent-related disputes.
Why is the Model Tenancy Act necessary?
- All state laws currently in place are vague regarding property disputes, non-compliance with agreements, and rent controls.
- According to the 2011 census, about 1 crore houses are lying vacant. They can be used for living.
- This ensures the availability of adequate rental housing for all.
Source- The Hindu
