Delhi Drafts New PG Policy: Licences, Rent Caps, Safety Rules After Collapse

In the wake of a building collapse in Satya Niketan that killed several students, Delhi's government has prepared a draft policy to regulate paying guest (PG) accommodations across the city. The move follows civic findings that the collapsed structure had no sanctioned plan, an unauthorised basement, no fire clearance, and an illegal fifth floor.

Minister Ashish Sood said the government had already been working on regulation but the tragedy accelerated the process. "We will formulate a comprehensive policy to regulate coaching institutes and PGs across Delhi," he said, adding that student safety would be a key focus.

The proposed framework introduces a mandatory PG Operating Licence, with police and municipal verification for operators. Each registered property would receive a unique number. A digital platform, GovPG, would list verified PGs, showing occupancy, rent changes, inspection dates, and compliance records, allowing students to check a PG's history before choosing it.

Safety measures under the draft include mandatory CCTV cameras at entrances and common areas, with footage stored for 30 days. PGs housing 15 or more students must employ a licensed night guard from 10 pm to 6 am. Visitor registers would be compulsory, and non-resident outsiders allowed entry only between 8 am and 9 pm. A warden must live or maintain an office within 500 metres and be available within 15 minutes in an emergency.

Rent regulation is another pillar. A Rent Regulation Committee would set rent bands by area, considering occupancy, amenities, market rates, and proximity to colleges and transport. Security deposits would be capped at three months' rent and returned within 30 days of departure. Operators could not demand more than three months' rent in advance. Students would receive 30 days' written notice before eviction, except in cases of documented misconduct. Discriminatory pricing based on gender, caste, religion, or state of origin would be banned.

The policy also proposes an Institutional Accommodation Committee with college officials, student representatives, a municipal official, and a police liaison officer. It would conduct quarterly inspections, issue notices to non-compliant PGs, publish compliance reports, and help settle disputes within 15 working days.

Sood said he had spoken with students from South Campus and IP University colleges to understand their grievances, which included high electricity charges—some reported being billed up to Rs 24 per unit—and issues with agreements and accountability.

To address the shortage of affordable student housing, the government is exploring increasing hostel capacity and using available buildings in Narela, with bus services. The draft also offers incentives for compliant PGs: a property-tax rebate, easier loans for safety upgrades, and a "Certified Student-Friendly PG" recognition after two years of compliance.

The policy is not yet law. Sood said the Urban Development Department will draft it, then consult stakeholders, the Chief Minister, and the Lieutenant Governor before Cabinet deliberation. Officials expect the draft Bill within about 45 days.