In a troubling incident highlighting gaps in property rights protection, a Guwahati rental home illegally occupied has left a family struggling for justice.
The family, who had been living in a rented property in the Six Mile area, returned from an extended stay outside the city only to find strangers occupying their house. Shockingly, the illegal occupants continue to reside there, while police action remains absent despite repeated complaints.
Family Returns to Find Strangers in Home
Rajib Das, who works for a private firm in Guwahati, spoke about the ordeal.
“We were away for four months due to personal reasons. When we came back, there were people living in our house. They had changed the locks and refused to leave,” said Rajib.
The Das family claims that the landlord, who owns multiple properties in the area, might be complicit in the illegal occupation.
Allegations Against Landlord
Rajib alleges that the landlord not only allowed the strangers to move in but may have collected rent from them while the legitimate tenants were away.
“We suspect the landlord has taken advance money from these people. That’s why he refuses to help us or file a complaint himself,” said Rajib.
Such incidents are not rare in Assam’s rapidly urbanizing cities, where disputes between landlords and tenants often escalate.
Police Inaction Raises Eyebrows
Despite the Das family filing a written complaint at Dispur Police Station, no significant action has been taken to evict the intruders.
“The police took our statement and said they would look into it. But so far, there’s been no progress. We’re forced to live with relatives because our own home is occupied by strangers,” Rajib shared.
Advocate Prerna Bhattacharjee, who practices at the Gauhati High Court, said, “If a Guwahati rental home illegally occupied remains unresolved despite police complaints. Moreover, it signals a severe breakdown of tenant protection laws. Police have the authority to act under sections of the Indian Penal Code dealing with criminal trespass.”
Residents Demand Accountability
Local residents are furious over the lack of action. Neighbours fear the situation might embolden other unscrupulous landlords and illegal occupants.
“This affects all of us. Today it’s Rajib, tomorrow it could be any of us,” said neighbor Ranjita Saikia.
Rising Property Disputes in Guwahati
Incidents like these underline the growing challenges in urban housing across Assam. Also, Guwahati expands, property disputes, illegal occupations, and tenancy fraud are rising.
Real estate experts say the demand for rental properties has skyrocketed, leading to unscrupulous practices by both landlords and brokers.
“Tenants must insist on formal agreements, police verification, and keep evidence of rent payments,” advised realtor Ankit Deka from Magicbricks.
Call for Legal Awareness
Advocate Bhattacharjee urged tenants to know their rights.
“Under the Assam Urban Areas Rent Control Act, tenants have significant protection. In cases where a Guwahati rental home illegally occupied is reported. Further, courts can order immediate restoration of possession to tenants,” she explained.
Also, she added that victims should not hesitate to seek legal remedies like filing for injunctions to restrain illegal occupants.
Das Family Determined to Fight
Despite facing immense hardship, the Das family remains determined to reclaim their home.
“We are consulting lawyers. We won’t give up. We want justice and our home back,” said Rajib.
Authorities Must Step Up
This case raises serious questions about law enforcement’s role in protecting property rights. Citizens and legal experts are demanding swift action from the police and district administration.
As Guwahati grows, ensuring housing security and tenant rights must become a priority. For now, the Das family’s ordeal serves as a stark reminder of the risks tenants face. Hence, the urgent need for stronger enforcement mechanisms.
For updates on property rights and tenant protection, visit the Assam Police website or seek help from local legal aid services.