In a progressive move, the Centre is reportedly set to introduce an anti-discriminatory clause in the Real Estate Regulator Act to stop owners or builders refusing to sell their apartments based on the buyer’s religion, marital status or food habits.

"Since the Constitution itself provides for non-discrimination, we will insert such a clause in the rules. However, it will desist from specifying the exact nature of discrimination as we don’t want to risk excluding any kind of discrimination by way of omission," The Indian Express quotes a ministry official as saying.

The report adds:

The anti-discrimination clause will provide recourse to buyers who are denied a house by builders owing to their caste, ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, dietary choices or any such factors. Once the rules are notified, those affected can approach the state-level regulatory authority, followed by the appellate tribunal.

However, the clause will apply only to buyers and will not be extended to people looking to rent.

Builders who do not adhere to these orders may face up to three years in prison and/or a fine.