Jammu, April 1 (IANS) In the first legislative move of its kind, ruling National Conference (NC) 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

sq/rad