Right to Accommodation Campaign (2014–15)

Introduction

From unregulated rent hikes to discriminatory practices in student housing, Praaveen Kumar Singh led a sustained protest under the banner of the Right to Accommodation Campaign. Focused on enforcing the Delhi Rent Control Act, this movement stood for housing justice for thousands of students across Delhi’s university neighborhoods.

Background & Reason

As housing costs around Delhi University spiraled out of control, landlords exploited the absence of regulation. Students — particularly from Dalit, Adivasi, and minority backgrounds — were being priced out, denied receipts, or forced into unsafe conditions. This campaign aimed to hold landlords and the state accountable to the law and to students.

Key Actions by Praaveen Kumar Singh

Launched a week-long hunger strike in October 2014 at Christian Colony (near DU’s North Campus) protesting unregulated rent hikes.
Demanded implementation of the Delhi Rent Control Act, 1995, in and around all university zones.
Continued his activism with a 42-day dharna and multiple hunger strikes across DU areas.
Exposed issues including:
- Arbitrary rent increases without notice
- Lack of rent receipts/legal agreements
- Caste and community-based discrimination in rental housing

Impact & Outcome

Garnered significant media attention — including national coverage by outlets like The Caravan and Business Standard.
Brought the student housing crisis into policy conversations, forcing universities and government officials to respond.
Initiated a broader student-led discourse on affordable, legal, and inclusive housing rights.
The movement helped make student welfare a visible political and public issue, not just a personal hardship.

Why It Matters

A place to live is a basic need — especially for students trying to build their futures. This protest showed that exploitation thrives in silence, and the only way to stop it is to raise collective voice. For Praaveen, this movement reaffirmed that education must never be derailed by housing injustice.

Media Article

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