India, Dec. 29 -- In 2025, landlord-tenant disputes dominated social media conversations across India, with Bengaluru emerging as a focal point in the residential rental sector. From demands for six to nine months' rent as security deposits to deductions for painting, cleaning, and minor repairs, tenants took to social media platforms to share experiences they describe as 'arbitrary' and 'exploitative'.

While landlords argued that such practices were needed to safeguard property values amid rising costs, tenants said opaque deductions and rigid terms were making renting a stressful and financially draining experience.

In 2025, a growing number of tenants said landlords were routinely deducting the equivalent of one month's rent from sec...