I am living in a pagdi system property in Kolkata and the landlord wants to redevelop, what are my rights?

The pagdi system is a traditional form of tenancy where the tenant pays a lump sum to the landlord at the time of transfer and the landlord receives a nominal rent. In Kolkata, pagdi tenancies are protected under the rent control law and the tenant has a right to continue in possession. The Calcutta High Court has upheld the rights of pagdi tenants against arbitrary eviction and held that the landlord must follow due process. West Bengal Premises Tenancy Act 1997 may have specific provisions for redevelopment of pagdi properties including consent of tenants and compensation. If the landlord proposes redevelopment, he must obtain the consent of a specified percentage of tenants and provide alternative accommodation during construction. The tenant is entitled to a flat of equivalent area in the redeveloped property. You should ensure that the redevelopment agreement is in writing and registered. You may also approach the court if the landlord violates any of the statutory requirements.