Senior citizens shocked over GO on rent waiver

W e senior citizens were shocked beyond imagination when we heard about the order advising tenants not to pay rent to house-owners in view of the lockdown. We appreciate the concern of the government for the poorer sections but they should have thought of the welfare of thousands of house-owners who have let their premises to make a living out of it, specially senior citizens and widows.

Here is an example of one of our family. friend. Half his pension goes to repay the housing loan. Both husband and wife are suffering from ill health and incur on an average of `10,000 to `12,000 on medical expenses. One portion of their house is let out to a software company staffer who earns `80,000 and pays a rent of `7,500. Another tenant owns a workshop and employs 15 workers and has an average surplus of `1 lakh to `1.5 lakh per month. He pays a rent of `9,500 per month. With the help of these rental receivables, the elderly couple is able to meet their minimum expenses.

Now, as per the government order, the will not receive rent and a case can be registered against him.

Besides, the GHMC, Water Works and Electricity Board want collection of their receivables online, even if the residents are not able to come out of their houses.

I request minister K.T. Rama Rao to use his good offices to prevail upon those who take emotional decisions without taking into account the welfare of all stake holders and revoke the rule.