What has the High Court decided about Punjab’s land pooling policy?
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Synopsis
The Punjab and Haryana High Court has put a stop to the AAP government's land pooling policy, allowing four weeks for the state to address serious concerns. With implications for farmers and landless laborers, this significant ruling highlights the need for proper assessments and protections.
Key Takeaways
- High Court stays land pooling policy.
- Government given four weeks to address concerns.
- Policy criticized for lack of rehabilitation for landless laborers.
- Opposition parties unite against the policy.
- Importance of social and environmental assessments highlighted.
Chandigarh, Aug 7 (NationPress) In a major development affecting the AAP administration in Punjab, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has temporarily halted the execution of the land pooling policy, granting the state a four-week period to rectify issues.
“We will suspend the policy and allow you time to resolve the issues raised,” the Bench, consisting of Justice Anupinder Grewal and Justice Deepak Manchanda, noted before concluding the session.
The High Court expressed serious concerns regarding the absence of measures for rehabilitating landless laborers and others reliant on land for their livelihood.
The court criticized the government for its lack of sincerity, planning, and legal readiness, as well as its failure to protect the rights of impoverished, landless, and agricultural workers. It warned that implementing the policy could result in extensive land exploitation by private interests and land mafias, jeopardizing the welfare of farmers and marginalized groups.
During the proceedings, the High Court inquired about the provisions made for landless individuals, laborers, and economically disadvantaged groups. The Bench pointed out that the policy was missing crucial social and environmental impact assessments, both essential for any land-related development projects.
Advocate-General Maninderjit Singh Bedi and senior advocate Gurminder Singh explained to the court that the policy was voluntary.
“Land will only be acquired with the consent of the landowners in exchange for housing development,” the Bench was informed. Petitioner Gurdeep Singh Gill argued that the policy constituted colourable legislation, allegedly created under a Central law that lacked the necessary enabling provisions for such a scheme.
His attorney has requested directions to annul the notification and the policy as ultra vires, arbitrary, and in violation of Articles 14, 19 (1) (g), 21, in conjunction with Article 300-A of the Constitution.
In the meantime, farmers and all primary opposition parties in the state, including the Congress, the BJP, and the Akali Dal, have opposed the policy, claiming that the government is attempting to seize land for the benefit of Delhi.
Leader of the Opposition Partap Bajwa praised the High Court's significant decision, which has effectively suspended the controversial land pooling policy.
“This scheme was a blatant violation of the Land Acquisition Act established under the visionary leadership of Dr. Manmohan Singh. The aim of this policy was to bypass social and environmental impact assessments, allowing the government to seize farmers' land and threatening the very foundation of our agrarian economy,” Bajwa stated.
Point of View
It is evident that the Punjab government must prioritize the interests of its farmers and landless citizens. The ruling serves as a reminder that policies affecting land use must undergo rigorous scrutiny and assessment to safeguard vulnerable populations. NationPress will continue to advocate for equitable and just policies in Punjab and across the nation.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Punjab and Haryana High Court's ruling on the land pooling policy?
The High Court has stayed the implementation of the land pooling policy, granting the Punjab government four weeks to address concerns raised about its potential impact on farmers and landless laborers.
What are the main concerns regarding the land pooling policy?
The court raised concerns about the lack of rehabilitation measures for landless laborers and the absence of social and environmental impact assessments, which are crucial for land development initiatives.
Who opposed the land pooling policy?
Farmers and major opposition parties, including the Congress, BJP, and Akali Dal, have opposed the policy, alleging it aims to benefit external interests at the expense of local farmers.
What did the court emphasize during the hearing?
The court emphasized the need for the government to protect the rights of marginalized communities and ensure that any land policy includes proper assessments and safeguards.
What is the significance of the High Court's decision?
This decision highlights the importance of legal preparedness and the need for comprehensive planning when implementing policies that affect land use and agricultural communities.
