The Delhi government is set to introduce comprehensive regulations for paying guest (PG) accommodations across the capital, following a tragic building collapse in Satya Niketan. The proposed 'Paying Guest Accommodation Regulation and Welfare Bill' aims to bring PGs in key educational areas like Mukherjee Nagar, Laxmi Nagar, Rajendra Nagar, and Delhi University's North Campus under a structured regulatory framework, ensuring student safety and welfare.
New Regulatory Framework for Delhi PGs
The upcoming legislation mandates a series of measures designed to formalize and improve the safety standards of PG accommodations. Operators will be required to register and obtain an operating license within 90 days. This process will involve securing no-objection certificates (NOCs) from the police, municipal corporation, and local administration.
Key proposals include:
- Each PG will receive a unique Paying Guest Registration Number (PGRN).
- A single-window digital platform will list all verified PGs, detailing rent, amenities, and security arrangements.
- Students will have the ability to file anonymous complaints through this portal.
- A compliance rating system for PGs will be implemented, with top-rated accommodations eligible for property tax exemptions and a 'Certified Student-Friendly PG' badge.
Rent Control and Enhanced Security Measures
To address financial exploitation and ensure fair practices, the bill proposes a Rent Regulation Committee. This committee will establish rent bands based on location and prevent operators from charging more than three months' rent as a security deposit or advance payment. Additionally, tenants will be entitled to a 30-day notice period when vacating. The regulations also prohibit discriminatory rent practices based on gender, caste, religion, or state of origin.
Security is a major focus, with mandatory requirements for:
- CCTV cameras at all entrances and common areas, with footage preserved for 30 days.
- Security guards at night for any PG housing more than 15 students.
- Maintenance of a visitor register.
- A warden available within a 500-meter radius of the accommodation.
An Institutional Accommodation Committee (IAC), comprising faculty members, student representatives, police, and municipal officials, will be formed to conduct quarterly inspections of PG accommodations.
Catalyst for Change: Satya Niketan Building Collapse
The urgent need for these regulations was underscored by the collapse of a five-story PG building in Satya Niketan, which tragically killed seven students and injured several others. A 27-hour rescue operation was launched, extracting 12 individuals from the rubble. Five people, including the building owner and PG operator, have been arrested in connection with the incident, with another PG operator currently absconding.
“The ‘Paying Guest Accommodation Regulation and Welfare Bill’ would bring PG accommodations in major educational hubs in the capital city including Mukherjee Nagar, Laxmi Nagar, Rajendra Nagar and North Campus of Delhi University under a formal regulatory system.”
This incident highlighted critical gaps in oversight and safety standards, prompting the Delhi government to take decisive action to prevent future tragedies and ensure a safer living environment for students.