The Uttarakhand government plans to introduce stricter land purchase laws in the upcoming budget session of the assembly to regulate large-scale land acquisitions in hilly areas by non-residents. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami revealed the move, aimed at preventing the misuse of land by buyers from other states.
The government is also working to identify non-residents who have violated the current land purchase norms, which allow a maximum of 250 square meters for personal use in non-municipal areas. Land acquired illegally will be reclaimed. Reports indicate that some buyers have circumvented rules by purchasing land under relatives’ names or failing to fulfill commitments for commercial use, instead increasing their personal holdings.
Under the existing rules, revised by the BJP government in 2017, the permissible land limit for commercial purposes, such as tourism, industry, health, and education, is 30 acres, up from the previous 12.5 acres.
CM Dhami said, “We are launching an inquiry to identify those who bought land in the names of family members or did not fulfill promises of commercial ventures after acquiring large plots. In such cases, all land obtained through dubious means will be reclaimed.”
The new legislation aims to address loopholes and prevent unauthorized land transactions, particularly in areas outside municipal limits. “Amendments made in 2017 did not yield positive results,” Dhami said. “Previously, the government approved land purchases, but the amendment allowed district magistrates to approve acquisitions, leading to commitments in tourism, processing, health, and education sectors that were not honored. Our teams are compiling these details.”
A state committee is currently reviewing land ownership records throughout Uttarakhand, ensuring that legitimate investors have nothing to fear. “We will only act against those buying land for personal gain. Genuine investors will face no issues. We are dedicated to fostering progress while curbing illegal practices,” Dhami added.
Restrictions on land purchases by non-residents were initially set during the Congress government’s rule from 2002 to 2007, limiting purchases to 500 square meters in areas outside municipal boundaries. The BJP government later reduced this limit to 250 square meters during its 2007-2012 term and prohibited agricultural land purchases by outsiders. In 2017, then CM Trivendra Singh Rawat lifted these restrictions to attract investment, allowing up to 30 acres for commercial activities such as tourism and agriculture.
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