Author(s): KK Nakshathra

Abstract: India’s rental housing sector has long been governed by a complex interplay between the rights of landlords and tenants. Historically, stringent rent control laws were enacted to protect tenants, but they inadvertently disincentivized landlords, leading to housing shortages and the proliferation of informal rental markets. The introduction of the Model Tenancy Act (MTA), 2021 marked a significant shift toward reform, aiming to establish a balanced and transparent legal framework. This study explores the evolution of tenancy laws in India, focusing on the key provisions and challenges of the MTA, including formal lease agreements, streamlined eviction procedures, and the establishment of rent courts. It also addresses the uneven implementation across states, which hampers the Act’s intended impact. By analyzing these aspects alongside global best practices, this paper highlights the urgent need for enhanced awareness among stakeholders, state-level policy harmonization, and stronger dispute resolution mechanisms. The findings suggest that a balanced, well-enforced tenancy law is essential for promoting affordable housing, ensuring investor confidence, and achieving long-term urban development goals. Policy recommendations include incentivizing state adoption, digitalizing lease registration, strengthening tribunals, and adopting flexible frameworks for eviction and deposits to foster a fairer rental ecosystem.

Pages: 352-355 | Views: 52 | Downloads: 15

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