Synopsis
The Bihar government is intensively addressing illegal encroachments on Bettiah Raj properties, led by senior officials mobilizing for land reclamation. With K.K. Pathak's recent visit, a comprehensive review of land records and a major crackdown on illegal occupations are imminent, reflecting a commitment to land reforms and heritage development.Key Takeaways
- Bihar government initiates action against illegal encroachments.
- K.K. Pathak visits Bettiah City for assessment.
- 1,326 acres of land discovered outside previous surveys.
- Strict measures to reclaim government land expected.
- Judicial challenges anticipated from current residents.
Patna, March 10 (NationPress) The Bihar government is preparing to implement stringent measures against illegal encroachments on Bettiah Raj properties, with high-ranking officials already initiating efforts to recover government land.
On Monday morning, the Additional Chief Secretary and Chairman of the Revenue and Land Reforms Board, K.K. Pathak, conducted a visit to Bettiah City to evaluate the current situation.
This visit has instilled a sense of urgency among the officials in the Revenue and Land Reforms Department, signaling that the government is serious about evicting illegal occupants from these properties.
A total of 1,326 acres of additional Bettiah Raj land has recently come to light, which was not captured in the 2017-18 land survey. The administration is now accelerating the process of registering this land in government records to secure its protection.
With K.K. Pathak personally overseeing the status of these properties, a significant crackdown on encroachments is anticipated shortly. The government’s emphasis on land reforms could result in broader actions throughout the state to reclaim illegally occupied public land.
Following explicit directives from District Magistrate Dinesh Kumar Rai, officials have been assigned to conduct an in-depth investigation into the land records of Bettiah Raj.
K.K. Pathak is expected to assess illegal occupations on government lands during his visit. Numerous long-standing encroachment cases have emerged, and stringent actions are expected against those involved.
His visit will also encompass a review of the digitization of Bettiah Raj properties to enhance record-keeping and transparency. The government is contemplating a heritage development plan aimed at restoring and enhancing the palaces and historical sites of Bettiah Raj.
Pathak’s reputation for prompt action has put district officials on alert. Even prior to his arrival, they have begun reviewing land records and compiling reports on outstanding cases. This visit is anticipated to be a crucial evaluation for the revenue and administrative officials in Bettiah.
With the Bihar Assembly passing the bill concerning Bettiah Raj during the winter session last year, the property is now under state government ownership, representing a significant milestone in the state’s governance and land management.
The last ruler of Bettiah Raj, Harendra Kishore Singh, passed away in 1893 without leaving an heir, resulting in the estate's management by the Court of Wards starting in 1897.
The property, encompassing 15,221 acres in Bihar and 143 acres in Uttar Pradesh, has faced substantial encroachments. Over 66 percent of the estate’s land in West Champaran and 60 percent in East Champaran are reportedly occupied illegally.
Many current residents of the estate are likely to seek judicial recourse, contesting their eviction or pursuing ownership rights based on long-term occupation or other claims.
