News:The Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorized Occupants) Amendment Bill, 2019 has come into effect.The Bill amends the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act,1971.
Facts:
Objective:The bill aims to facilitate smooth and speedy eviction of unauthorised occupants from government residential accommodations.
Features of the bill:
- Residential accommodation:The bill defines the residential accommodation occupation as the occupation of public premises by a person on the grant of a license for such an occupation.
- The license must be given for a fixed tenure or for the period the person holds office.Further,the occupation must be allowed under the rules made by the central, state or union territory government, or a statutory authority.
- Notice for eviction: The Bill adds a provision laying down the procedure for eviction from residential accommodation.It requires an estate officer to issue a written notice to a person if he is in unauthorised occupation of a residential accommodation.
- Order of eviction: After considering the cause shown and making any other inquiries,the estate officer will make an order for eviction.If the person fails to comply with the order, the estate officer may evict such person from the residential accommodation and take possession of it.
- Payment of damages: If the person in unauthorised occupation of the residential accommodation challenges the eviction order passed by the estate officer in court, he will be required to pay damages for every month of such occupation.
