Kadri Mallikatte Market Tenants Protest New Rental Norms and Lack of Facilities

The shop tenants of the old Kadri Mallikatte Market are expressing their dissatisfaction with the new market norms, increased rental prices, and lack of facilities, calling it a money-making scheme targeting the poor. Despite promises to return the shops to previous tenants, the department issued bids for 15 shops and plans to implement a lottery system, ignoring earlier commitments. The land has been reclassified as super built areas, further raising rental costs.

In a meeting, Rekha J Shetty, zonal commissioner, stated that vendors would be given the first right of refusal by paying 5% extra over the bids to secure a shop. Vendors raised concerns about rising dengue cases, lack of vehicle space, and receiving less land than paid for. Shetty assured that these issues would be addressed and no shops would open until all work was completed.

Deputy commissioner, revenue, Girish Nandan M, issued notices to make a permanent settlement, emphasizing that the process is governmental and aiming to help tenants. He highlighted the importance of written consent for the 5% bid hike and noted that any refusal would be acknowledged if not submitted by the July 25 deadline.

Mayor Suheer Shetty Kannur mentioned the project’s financial constraints and the necessity of revising the price per square foot. He urged vendors to write a letter before asking for revised prices.

Tenants accused officials of failing to communicate with the court, resulting in unresolved issues and significantly higher rents without improved facilities. They pledged not to comply with the new terms until their concerns are properly addressed.