India, Sept. 30 -- The common area maintenance (CAM) charge, often treated as a routine monthly expense by apartment owners, is increasingly becoming a flashpoint in Noida's large gated communities. A few weeks ago, a 40% increase in CAM charges at Noida's Cleo County housing society triggered multiple protests by residents. Now, residents of Ajnara Homes in Greater Noida West are protesting over alleged deficiencies in basic services and restrictions on the entry of delivery personnel and workers.

Some residents have questioned whether they should continue paying CAM charges when, according to them, essential services and facilities are not being provided adequately.

The two disputes have different triggers-one over a sharp increase in...