Over 130 Paying Guest (PG) operators have approached the Gujarat High Court against the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation’s (AMC) new rules that make it mandatory to get prior permission from housing societies before running PG facilities.
The operators, who together house more than 15,000 people, argue that the rules violate their right to do business and tenants’ right to affordable accommodation.
They claim housing societies cannot stop them from renting rooms to bachelors, students, or employees.PG operators say the decision will push up rents and hurt poor students and workers who depend on low-cost PGs.
They allege the move only benefits builders with unsold flats, while making it difficult for small operators to survive.The AMC framed these rules after a High Court order directing regulation of PG services.
The new policy requires No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from both housing societies and police, and also brings PGs under strict building use norms like hostels and lodges, with fire safety and other approvals.
The case is expected to be heard soon, with some housing societies also preparing to join the matter to oppose PG operators.