In a significant move to tighten urban surveillance and track undocumented residents, the Nagpur city police have made tenant verification compulsory across the city. Landlords and property agents have been warned of criminal action for non-compliance with the new directive.
Legal Basis and Scope of the Order
Invoking powers under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), Nagpur Commissioner of Police Ravinder Singal issued an order directing all landlords, flat owners, and property agents to furnish complete tenant details to the nearest police station. This must be done either before renting out premises or within 48 hours of occupancy.
The order came into force on May 8 and will remain valid until July 7. It mandates the submission of tenants' names, permanent addresses, previous residential details, mobile numbers, identity documents, photographs, rent agreements, and tenancy duration.
Reasons Behind the Decision
Police officials stated that the decision was prompted by concerns over several tenants staying in the city without proper documentation or police records. This lack of verified information has made identification and tracking difficult during investigations. The order also flags the possibility of unlawful activities and law-and-order threats arising from unverified tenant information.
Special Provisions for Foreign Nationals
Special focus has been placed on foreign nationals. Landlords accommodating foreign tenants must now submit passport, visa, and FRRO registration details to the police. The notification further states that no property owner or agent should rent out premises without informing the police and carrying out tenant verification.
To enforce the order, police will conduct inspection and verification drives, particularly targeting illegal immigrants and undocumented residents.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Any violation of the directive could attract criminal proceedings under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), police said. Citizens have also been urged to immediately report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or dial 112. The order applies across the Nagpur City Police Commissionerate limits.
This move is expected to enhance security and ensure that all residents are properly documented, reducing the risk of criminal activities and improving law enforcement capabilities in the city.
