Meghalaya HC Orders Defense Ministry to Justify Massive Rent Hike for Shillong Cantonment Lessees

The Meghalaya High Court has directed the Defence Ministry to explain a drastic rent increase from ₹3 to ₹13,000 per month for approximately 3,000 leaseholders on Shillong cantonment land.

The hike, instituted in April 2022 under the ministry’s Standard Rent Determination policy, prompted residents to receive arrear notices of up to ₹4.7 lakh.

The court held that while public authorities may revise rent, they must do so transparently and fairly, adhering to the principles of Article 14.

Until formal demands are issued, tenants must pay 40% of rent arrears by December 2025. The ministry has six weeks to provide detailed valuations and grant hearings.