Will No Poor Person Be Left Homeless in Zudpi Jungle Issue?
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Synopsis
In a recent Assembly session, Maharashtra's Revenue Minister reassured citizens that no impoverished individual will be left homeless due to the Zudpi Jungle land issue. He outlined the government's commitment to protecting the rights of the underprivileged while ensuring a comprehensive resolution to the ongoing land disputes in Vidarbha.
Key Takeaways
- The Maharashtra government guarantees protection for the poor amid the Zudpi Jungle land controversy.
- A standard operating procedure will be established to clarify public confusion.
- The government is committed to filing a review petition if necessary.
- A task force will be formed to address encroachments.
- Efforts will prioritize the protection of Scheduled Tribes and backward classes.
Mumbai, July 16 (NationPress) Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule asserted on Wednesday during the Assembly session that no impoverished individual in Vidarbha will face homelessness due to the contentious 'Zudpi Jungle' land matter.
He emphasized that the state government will guarantee the comprehensive protection of the underprivileged and will not abandon anyone in distress.
He further mentioned that a standard operating procedure will be released in the upcoming week to mitigate public uncertainty.
"If necessary, the government will initiate a review petition to protect the rights of the people in Vidarbha," Bawankule stated.
In response to inquiries from Congress MLA Nana Patole and follow-up questions from MLAs Rajkumar Badole and Sanjay Meshram, the Minister provided comprehensive clarifications.
Minister Bawankule detailed that the issue pertains to 92,115 hectares of land, out of which 86,409 hectares are classified as unsuitable for afforestation.
He explained that encroachment covers 27,507 hectares, with 26,672 hectares allocated for non-forest usage. Additionally, 3,229 hectares fall under protected areas, which are non-transferable but can be utilized.
Following the directives from the Supreme Court, a list of encroachments prior to 1996 will be compiled and presented to the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests. Details on encroachments after 1996 will also be gathered and submitted within a month. A meeting led by the Chief Secretary will take place, and a governmental resolution will be enacted," he added.
MLA Badole raised apprehensions regarding lands recorded under gram panchayats, municipalities, and local governing bodies, along with concerns about government constructions, cremation grounds, and playgrounds.
In reply, Minister Bawankule affirmed that the state government is developing a database of all records maintained by local authorities, including post-1996 government constructions.
"Lands smaller than three acres will be designated as protected forests, ensuring that no residences or government buildings are compromised. Future government constructions will require authorization from the Forest Department," he added.
Congress MLA Sanjay Meshram questioned the establishment of a specialized task force.
Minister Bawankule clarified that the Supreme Court has mandated the submission of information in the format specified by the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests within three months.
A task force comprising Sub-Divisional Magistrates, Superintendents of Police, Assistant Conservators of Forests, and Superintendents of Land Records will be formed to address encroachments, he said.
While illegal encroachments will be removed, the state government's policy will prioritize the protection of Scheduled Tribes and backward classes, he added.
Information disclosed in June 2025 indicates that 86,409 hectares of 'Zudpi Jungle' land in the districts of Nagpur, Bhandara, Gondia, Wardha, Chandrapur, and Gadchiroli were set to be transitioned from the Revenue Department to the Forest Department.
"In actuality, many of these areas are not densely forested. For years, residents have been living, farming, or establishing government structures on these lands. This situation has jeopardized the future of countless families and hindered local development initiatives. In addressing this, Revenue Minister Bawankule confidently stated that the land dispute in Vidarbha will be resolved soon, offering substantial relief to local residents and development programs, as noted in a statement from the Revenue Minister's office.
Point of View
It is crucial to remain informed about the ongoing developments regarding the Zudpi Jungle land issue in Maharashtra. Minister Bawankule's commitment to protecting the poor amid this controversy reflects a broader need for efficient governance and responsible land management. The government's proactive stance on this matter is commendable, yet it is equally important to ensure transparency and collaboration with local communities.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Zudpi Jungle land issue?
The Zudpi Jungle land issue involves approximately 92,115 hectares of land in Vidarbha, with concerns over encroachments and suitability for afforestation.
How many hectares are affected by encroachment?
Encroachment exists on 27,507 hectares of the Zudpi Jungle land.
What measures will the government take to protect the poor?
The Maharashtra government has assured that no poor individual will be rendered homeless and will issue a standard operating procedure to address public concerns.
Will there be a task force formed to address land issues?
Yes, a task force including various officials will be established to manage encroachments and ensure compliance with regulations.
How will the Supreme Court's directives be implemented?
The state will compile information on encroachments as per the Supreme Court's directives and submit it to the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests.
