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J&K NC Backs Bill to Renew Gulmarg Hotel Leases, Countering 2022 Rules

The ruling National Conference in Jammu and Kashmir has supported the introduction of a Private Member's Bill seeking the renewal of leases for existing occupants, marking a first for the party since assuming power. The Bill, tabled by MLA Tanvir Sadiq, directly counters the Jammu and Kashmir Land Grants Rules of 2022, which mandate that expired leases be put to fresh auction at market rates. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, holding the revenue portfolio, stated he would not oppose the bill, allowing it to be introduced through a voice vote in the assembly. If passed, the legislation would primarily benefit scores of local hoteliers in Gulmarg whose leases have expired.

Key Points: J&K NC Supports Bill to Renew Gulmarg Hotel Leases

  • First Private Member Bill not opposed by ruling NC
  • Aims to renew leases for existing occupants
  • Counters J&K Land Grants Rules, 2022
  • Would benefit local Gulmarg hoteliers if passed
2 min read

Ruling NC in J&K supports introduction of Private Member Bill seeking renewal of leases of existing occupants

Ruling National Conference supports a Private Member's Bill to renew leases for existing occupants, countering 2022 auction rules and aiding local hoteliers.

"I would not oppose the Bill. - Omar Abdullah"

Jammu, April 1

In the first legislative move of its kind, ruling National Conference on Wednesday supported the introduction of a Private Member's Bill seeking renewal of leases in favour of existing occupants.

The Bill tabled 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, said he would not oppose the Bill.

The Speaker, Abdul Rahim Rather then put the Bill's introduction to a vote. The House permitted its introduction as NC members through a voice vote supported it while Opposition parties chose to remain silent.

This was the first Private Member Bill which was not opposed by the ruling National Conference at its introduction stage after assuming power.

Tanvir Sadiq's Bill seeking renewal of leases to existing leaseholders assumes 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 subsisting or expired residential leases, 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 expired or determined prior to the commencement of these rules, or issued under these rules-shall not be renewed and shall stand determined.

Such leases, the rules state, shall be put to auction afresh at market rates instead of almost negligible premium.

Once the Bill is passed and after it receives the assent of the Lieutenant Governor, scores of local hoteliers in Gulmarg would be benefitted.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While protecting existing businesses is important, the 2022 rules aimed to bring transparency and market rates. Simply renewing old leases at 'negligible premium' feels like a missed opportunity for state revenue. Could there be a middle path? 🤔
R
Rohit P
Gulmarg is a jewel of Indian tourism. The local hoteliers know the terrain and culture best. Throwing them out for auctions could hand over our prime properties to big corporations from outside J&K. This bill safeguards our local economy. 👍
S
Sarah B
Interesting to see a Private Member Bill getting this level of support. Shows consensus on the issue. Hope the details are fair – renewal shouldn't mean a free pass forever. Regular reviews and reasonable premium increases should be part of it.
V
Vikram M
As someone from Jammu, I see both sides. The old system had its flaws, but the 2022 rules were too harsh. A balanced amendment is needed. Let's hope this bill is debated thoroughly and not rushed through. The LG's assent will be key.
K
Kavya N
This is about more than hotels. It's about stability for families who have invested their lives in Gulmarg. The sudden change in 2022 caused so much anxiety. This bill brings much-needed relief. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳

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