AAP Chandigarh Submits Memorandum to Chandigarh Housing Board Demanding Relief Measures for EWS Tenants under Rehabilitation Housing Schemes

By 121 News

Chandigarh, May 28, 2025:--A delegation from the Aam Aadmi Party, Chandigarh, led by Vijaypal Singh-President, submitted a memorandum today to the Chief Secretary-cum-Chairman of the Chandigarh Housing Board. The delegation included Omkar Singh Aulakh (General Secretary), Councillor Jaswinder Kaur (LOP), Hardeep Buterla, Manur (President Minority, Yogesh Dhingra (State Spokesperson), Ramchander Yadav and  Vikrant A Tanwar (State Media Incharge).

The memorandum highlighted the urgent concerns of residents from various rehabilitation colonies like Ramdarbar, Dhanas, Sector 56, Maloya, and Sunder Nagar. These families, originally resettled under rehabilitation schemes, are now facing severe hardship due to sealing of their homes and cancellation of allotments triggered by unpaid rent and excessive penalties.

The AAP delegation raised the key demands i.e. immediate halt to sealing and cancellation actions due to non-payment, as these actions are causing severe mental and physical distress. Waiver or reduction of high penal interest rates (up to 24%), imposed on outstanding dues, in light of prolonged financial challenges, especially post-COVID-19. Reactivation of closed accounts to enable willing residents to repay pending dues. Introduction of an affordable, structured installment plan to help residents settle their dues without displacement. Temporary stay on evictions, allowing affected families to remain in their homes while a fair resolution is reached. The delegation emphasized that evicting BPL families contradicts existing welfare schemes like free ration and other social support measures.

Vijaypal Singh, President of AAP Chandigarh, stated that the right to shelter is a constitutional right under Article 21. The Supreme Court in Olga Tellis v. BMC clearly ruled in favor of protecting the poor from forced evictions. We urge the Chandigarh Housing Board to act with compassion and uphold the principles of justice and dignity.

The memorandum also referenced India's commitment to international human rights and the Legal Services Authorities Act, which guarantees legal protection to economically weaker sections.