My landlord in Varanasi is increasing rent every six months, can he do that under the state rent control law?

Detailed Legal Analysis

No, your landlord cannot raise rent arbitrarily because Uttar Pradesh Rent Control Act 1972 fixes the frequency and rate of increase for controlled tenancies in Varanasi. Under the Act, rent can typically be enhanced only after a gap of three to five years and that too with prior written notice and on grounds specified in the statute.

The Allahabad High Court has repeatedly held that increases beyond the statutory ceiling are invalid and unenforceable against the tenant. You should reply to the landlord in writing objecting to the increase, and if he insists, file an application before the Rent Controller or the Rent Authority constituted under Uttar Pradesh Rent Control Act 1972.

Keep all rent receipts and the tenancy agreement safe, as they form the basis of your protection before the Rent Court.