279 Violations of land laws reported across state: Data

Uttarakhand government has found 279 alleged violations of the prevailing land laws in the state, with the highest 79 reported from Nainital, followed by Dehradun (78), Udham Singh Nagar (37), Haridwar (25) and Almora (24).

- Amit Bathla

DEHRADUN:

According to official data, 14 cases were reported in Pauri Garhwal, eight in Uttarkashi, six in Tehri Garhwal, five in Bageshwar, and three in Chamoli. No cases have been reported in Rudraprayag, Champawat and Pithoragarh.

The existing land laws in Uttarakhand mandate that people from outside the state can buy land outside municipal limits above 250 square meters for which they have to seek the state government's permission and state purpose for the same.

The buyers must use the land for the stated purpose within the stipulated two years, the law says. "Then they must use the land for the stated purpose whether it is building a resort, or a hotel or a meditation center in two years. In case land bought is less than 250 square meters, no permission of the state government is required and there is also no limitation of time for using the purchased land," said a government official.

Chandresh Kumar, secretary, department of revenue, said, "We are regularly acting against people who have violated the prevailing land laws in the state. The key violation under the law that comes to light is that the lands purchased for the stated purpose are not being utilized. They (violators) are served a notice to file a reply within 30 days. The matter then goes to revenue courts and action is taken accordingly, as per the mandate of the state government. As the presiding officers are occupied with other work, it delays the disposal of cases."

According to Kumaon commissioner Deepak Rawat, all sub divisional magistrates and tehsildars of all districts have been asked to inquire whether the purpose given for the use of land at the time of purchase in hills and plains is being fulfilled. "Some people who purchased land for religious purposes are using it for hotels and resorts. We will take action against violators," he said.