Kerala cabinet backs right to housing bill

In a decisive move to shield vulnerable families from losing their homes, the Kerala Cabinet on Saturday approved a draft bill aimed at protecting the right to housing for individuals facing loan defaults. The legislation comes amid rising concerns over households being evicted due to financial hardships beyond their control.

The bill seeks to provide legal protection for those whose loan repayments are delayed for genuine reasons, ensuring that individuals do not lose their sole residence. Eligibility would extend to families with an annual income of less than Rs 3 lakh, where the total loan amount does not exceed Rs 5 lakh and fines and interest remain under Rs 10 lakh.

The draft bill would cover loans from public sector banks, cooperative banks, and cooperative societies, offering a lifeline to financially struggling households and reinforcing Kerala’s commitment to social security and housing rights.