A circular dated January 7, 2017 signed by Bombay Parsi Punchayet (BPP) chairman Yazdi Desai, bearing no reference number, was dropped off at our residence in mid-February. It attempts to make out a case for increase in service charges for utilities such as "water, common electricity, security, salaries of sweepers, malis, pump men and property taxes.” However, our records show that apart from the service charges of Rs 150 per month which we are paying at present, we are also paying for water charges and property taxes. In fact, security and parking charges which are being paid separately have been recently increased. We understand from residents of some baugs/colonies that 50% contribution by the BPP towards repairs to buildings which was earlier being paid has now been deferred. Additionally, occupants are voluntarily paying one month’s extra rent since the last several years.
Is it justifiable to collect a uniform charge of Rs 900 per month as service charges from those occupying large flats of over 2,000 sq ft as well from those using 300 sq ft flats?
The chairman writes that he hopes occupants "will willingly agree… in keeping with the tradition of cordial relations.” However, we understand that custodians have been instructed not to accept rents and to insist that increased security charges be paid simultaneously.
It is true that some Parsi Irani Zoroastrians living in BPP/Wadia baugs and colonies, beneficiaries of our forefathers’ foresight and munificence, are paying a fraction of the market rent. But these are old properties protected under The Maharashtra Rent Control Act, 1999 and hence the rents cannot be compared with those for new constructions and without the "Parsis Only” covenant.
While better off residents may not feel the pinch, thought should have been given to retired and senior residents who live on fixed/dropping incomes, many of whom may have already paid up for fear of non-acceptance of rent.
PHIROZE AMROLIWALLA
phirozeamroliwalla@gmail.com