Jalpaiguri admin takes steps to reclaim encroached govt lands

RAJDEEP MONDAL, MP, 15 Jan 2025, Jalpaiguri: The Jalpaiguri district administration has initiated steps to identify and reclaim government lands encroached upon by individuals and businesses, following a directive from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. 

During a recent administrative meeting, the Chief Minister instructed district magistrates to restore all encroached government land. Initial surveys by the Land department have revealed extensive encroachments across several areas. In some cases, two-storey buildings have been constructed on government land. 

The issue is widespread, with unauthorised structures such as restaurants, hotels, and shops found in Maynaguri, Rajganj, Dhupguri, Banarhat, Malbazar, Kranti, Nagrakata, and Meteli blocks. 

Along major highways, numerous establishments have also been built on encroached land, while in urban areas, commercial buildings bearing individual names have been set up on government property. 

In some areas, government employees have encroached on land to construct houses, garages and shops. Affected residents have expressed concerns, citing long-standing occupancy. 

Durbar Sarkar, a homeowner, stated: “I pay taxes to the panchayat, and all utilities, including electricity and water, are in my name. If asked to move out, I have no choice but to file a case against the government.” 

Another resident, Anik Majumdar, remarked: “My family has lived here for generations. While we have upgraded our home, nothing was said for years. Moving out now is impossible.” Mahua Gope, Chairperson of Jalpaiguri Zilla Parishad, acknowledged that land encroachment has been an issue predating the current administration. 

“The administration is ensuring no new encroachments occur as per the Chief Minister’s instructions. Legal action will be taken against encroachers, regardless of their affiliations,” she said. District Magistrate Shama Parveen confirmed that encroached government land across the district has been identified. 

“A proposal detailing measures to restore these lands will be sent to the state government and the Chief Minister’s office this week,” she added. 

Courtesy & source: Millennium Post

https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/record-11-cr-pilgrims-take-holy-dip-at-gangasagar-on-makar-sankranti-594987