Nowshera shop owners resist rent hike, TMA seals shops

In Nowshera, a recent dispute over rent has caused turmoil in the Daguna Chowk area of Nowshera Kalan. The Tehsil Municipal Administration (TMA) took action by sealing 49 shops after shopkeepers resisted the proposed rent increase. The operation was conducted by the tehsil municipal officer and the tehsil officer revenue.

Following the sealing of the shops, disgruntled shop owners staged a protest, blocking the Nowshera-Charsadda Road to express their dissatisfaction with the TMA's actions. Despite shop owners reopening their shops after breaking the seals, they have threatened to pursue a contempt of court case. Subsequently, authorities have called for police intervention to maintain order.

The root of the conflict lies in the TMA's demand for a substantial rent hike to Rs15,000 per month, along with a non-refundable security deposit of Rs200,000, in compliance with directives from the provincial government. However, shop owners argue that an existing agreement specifies a monthly rent of Rs2,000, to be divided equally between the TMA and the landowners.

Shop owners assert their ownership of the property, which encompasses a proposed sports complex and a burial ground. They adamantly oppose the proposed rent increase and security deposit, citing the terms outlined in the current agreement.

The ongoing dispute between shop owners and the TMA in Nowshera highlights the complexities of rent agreements and property ownership. As negotiations continue, it is crucial for all parties involved to seek an amicable resolution that considers the interests of both the business community and local authorities.