We, the undersigned tenant, and a concerned citizen, seek urgent intervention from the Government of NCT of Delhi to address the growing insecurity faced by long-standing commercial tenants operating under the Pagadi system, particularly in markets such as Rajouri Garden.

Many shopkeepers in these markets have been running their businesses continuously for 30–35 years or more. These establishments were created under lawful long-term arrangements, where tenants paid significant amounts to original owners decades ago, investing their life savings to build and sustain their businesses.

Over the years, these small traders have contributed to local employment, economic activity, and the character of Delhi’s traditional markets. However, in recent times, there has been a significant increase in eviction proceedings against such long-standing tenants, creating widespread fear and uncertainty regarding the continuity of their livelihoods.

While we fully respect the legal rights of property owners and the judicial process, the current situation highlights serious structural gaps in protection for Pagadi tenants in commercial properties. Many tenants who have occupied premises for decades are now facing prolonged litigation, putting their life’s work and financial security at risk.

This situation raises important concerns:

• Lack of clear legal protection for long-term Pagadi tenants in commercial establishments
• Vulnerability of small traders despite decades of uninterrupted occupation
• Imbalance in bargaining power between landlords and tenants in eviction disputes
• Absence of adequate safeguards to prevent misuse of eviction mechanisms

Our Demands:
We respectfully urge the Government of NCT of Delhi to:
1. Review the existing legal and policy framework governing Pagadi and similar tenancy arrangements in commercial properties.

2. Introduce stronger statutory protections for long-standing tenants who have occupied premises for decades.

3. Ensure fair, balanced, and time-bound adjudication of eviction disputes involving commercial tenants.

4. Establish safeguards to prevent harassment or undue litigation against small traders.

5. Protect the livelihood and business continuity of thousands of families dependent on these establishments