Will 14 Disputed Border Villages in Chandrapur Be Merged with Maharashtra?

Mumbai, July 16 (NationPress) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has instructed the incorporation of 14 disputed villages from the Jiwati tehsil in Chandrapur district into the state, with a definitive resolution anticipated shortly.

This initiative is poised to settle the longstanding dilemma surrounding these border villages.

Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule revealed pivotal decisions, including the transformation of Class 2 lands to Class 1 status and the green light for the Sanjay Gandhi Yojana Recruitment.

The Revenue Minister has mandated swift actions to upgrade Class 2 lands under the District Collector's oversight to Class 1 status.

A noteworthy resolution was reached to transition Class 2 lands in survey numbers 1 to 8 in Rajura city to Class 1 at zero cost, offering significant financial relief to landowners.

A vital announcement was made to grant 'pattas' (land titles) for forest lands, ensuring legal rights for families reliant on these lands for years, addressing a crucial concern for local inhabitants, as stated by the Revenue Minister's office.

Although approval for seven positions under the Sanjay Gandhi Yojana was secured, recruitment had been delayed.

The Revenue Minister issued immediate directives to sanction the recruitment, which will hasten the scheme's execution.

The matter of administrative hurdles in Jiwati tehsil due to unfilled Kotwal positions was raised, prompting the Revenue Minister to order the prompt approval of a proposal for their recruitment.

This measure will streamline administrative functions in the locality.

Simultaneously, Minister Bawankule announced that the state government has levied an astounding fine of Rs 28,49,71,714 due to the unauthorized extraction of 49,994 brass of minor minerals, particularly sand, in Gaur of Parbhani district, as part of a crackdown on illegal mining practices in the area.

The Minister remarked, "Following inquiries raised by the Leader of the Opposition, an investigation was carried out. Upon visiting the site, it was discovered that excavation was done without permission. A fine has been imposed, and a one-month deadline until July 17 has been set for payment. Noncompliance will result in seizure actions."

He further elaborated that stringent measures have been instituted to combat illegal mining, including drone surveillance and electronic transport permits already in effect.

Evidence of illegal mining uncovered during the investigation in Gaur accelerated the enforcement action.

The state government is also intensifying efforts to avert such occurrences in the future through rigorous policies and enhanced utilization of technology.

Minister Bawankule stressed that this action will act as a robust deterrent against those engaged in illegal mining activities.