M/S. HOTEL TRAMBOO CONTINENTAL Vs. HOME DEPARTMENT CIVIL SECRETARIAT GOVT. OF JAMMU AND KASHMIR & ORS.

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The simple dispute in these appeals is with regard to the rent payable to the appellant in consideration of the occupation of the rooms by the Government. The disputed period relates to 1997-2008. According to the learned counsel appearing for the appellant, even the rent agreement contemplated fixation of rent as per the prevailing government orders. It is also submitted that the appellant was entitled to the rent as paid to the other hotels during the relevant period. Be that as it may, it is not in dispute that with regard to the Police Department, rent has been paid @ Rs.200.00 per day per room, as per the rent fixed by Government Order dated 28th Aug., 1998. So far as rooms occupied by the Estate Officer, it is submitted that what is paid by the Police Department for occupation of rooms cannot be paid by the Estate Department. We are not able to understand the rationale behind this classification.

(2.) Having heard learned counsel on both sides, we find that essentially there seems to be a dispute of rent payable by different departments. Without expressing any opinion on the merits, we deem it to be a fit case to refer the matter to the Chief Secretary, State of Jammu and Kashmir, since he is the competent authority to take a decision on the issues pertaining to the different rates as applicable to different departments.

(3.) Accordingly, the civil appeals are disposed of with a direction to the Chief Secretary of the State of Jammu and Kashmir to take a decision as to the rent payable to the appellant for occupation of the rooms during the period 1997-2008, within four months.