Jammu, April 1 – In a pioneering move, the ruling National Conference (NC) on Wednesday backed the introduction of a Private Member's Bill seeking the renewal of leases for existing occupants.
The Bill, proposed by MLA Tanvir Sadiq, was allowed to be introduced by the Speaker after State Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who also holds the revenue department portfolio, stated that he would not oppose the Bill.
The Speaker, Abdul Rahim Rather, put the Bill's introduction to a vote. The House permitted its introduction as NC members voiced their support through a voice vote, while opposition parties chose to remain silent.
This was the first Private Member Bill that was not opposed by the ruling National Conference at its introduction stage after assuming power.
Tanvir Sadiq's Bill, seeking the renewal of leases for existing leaseholders, gains significance in light of the expiry of leases held by hoteliers in Gulmarg. The Bill has been brought to counter the impact of the Jammu and Kashmir Land Grants Rules, 2022.
The new rules, unveiled in 2022, stipulate that all leases – except those that are currently in effect or have expired, including those granted under the Jammu and Kashmir Land Grants Rules, 1960, the Notified Area (All Development Authorities in the tourism sector) Land Grant Rules, 2007, or leases that expired or were terminated before the commencement of these rules, or those issued under these rules – shall not be renewed and shall be deemed to have expired.
According to the rules, such leases should be put up for auction at market rates instead of a very small premium.
Once the Bill is passed and receives the assent of the Lieutenant Governor, numerous local hoteliers in Gulmarg would benefit.