Land purchase ban: Uttarakhand restricts outsiders in agriculture sector
Uttarakhand imposes ban on outsiders buying land for agriculture and horticulture
In a recent high-level meeting chaired by Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, an interim ban on land purchases for agriculture and horticulture by outsiders in the state was announced. The decision will remain in effect until the five-member drafting committee completes a detailed examination of the report submitted on land laws or until further orders are issued.
Background and restrictions
The move comes in response to concerns about preserving the interests of the public and the state. According to an official release, District Magistrates are instructed not to grant permission for land purchases by outsiders for agriculture and horticulture during this period. The ban is based on a 2004 amendment to Section 154 of the Uttar Pradesh Zamindari Abolition and Land Reforms Act, requiring permission from the district magistrate for individuals without immovable property in the state before September 12, 2003.
Chief Minister Dhami emphasized the government's commitment to working in line with public sentiments. He stated that the verification of prospective buyers' backgrounds will be a prerequisite for any land deal, with a focus on preventing purchases by outsiders for agricultural purposes. The government has also formed a committee on land law to gather suggestions from the public and experts for an expeditious report.
Local support and opposition
A recent rally in support of stricter land laws in Uttarakhand highlighted the demand for a 1950 domicile cutoff date and emphasized restrictions on land purchases in both urban and rural areas. While the Congress party criticized the timing of the ban, the BJP government emphasized its commitment to decisions in the public and state interest.
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