Mumbai, March 27 (NationPress) The government of Maharashtra has issued a government resolution (GR) aimed at the regularization of residential encroachments that were in existence as of January 1, 2011, which are currently utilized solely for residential purposes.

This initiative is expected to address the housing challenges faced by numerous underprivileged families throughout the state.

As per the GR, this measure is applicable across the entirety of the state, with the exception of the Mumbai and Mumbai Suburban districts.

Residential encroachments measuring up to 500 square feet will be regularized without any fees. For areas exceeding this limit, only 10% of the current market value will be charged as an occupancy fee.

Encroachments situated on riverbeds, canals, grazing lands (Gairan), public roads, forests, cemeteries, playgrounds, or lands earmarked for educational institutions and hospitals will not be eligible for regularization under any circumstances.

To assist families affected by these restrictions, the government has pledged to provide alternative housing options through the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.

Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule emphasized that the government's policy ensures that no needy family in the state is left without shelter.

“By regularizing encroachments up until January 1, 2011, we have extended relief to millions of families, thereby stabilizing their lives. We will conduct a review of this initiative every three months,” he stated.

The primary aim of this initiative is to reach the most disadvantaged members of society in line with the ‘Housing for All’ policy and the ‘Developed Maharashtra 2047’ vision.

Special committees have been formed, led by District Collectors, Sub-Divisional Officers, and Tehsildars, for the effective execution of this scheme. This streamlines the process by eliminating the need for multiple government approvals, as these committees will hold the authority to make final decisions.

A 17-member committee, headed by the Guardian Minister, operates at the district level, with additional committees to be established at the Assembly constituency level, chaired by respective MLAs. A well-structured system is being developed to manage eligibility criteria, terms and conditions, area limitations, fee structures, implementation processes, application timelines, verification, and execution protocols,” Bawankule added.

He further noted that land will be allocated as ‘Occupant Class-2’ jointly in the names of the husband and wife. A maximum of 1,500 square feet will be regularized in both urban and rural contexts, with encroachments surpassing this limit to be demolished.

“All residential encroachments up to 500 square feet will incur no charges. However, if any portion of the home is utilized for business, a fee of 25% of the market value will apply. A nominal fee of Rs 1,000 will be required for land registration up to 1,000 square feet. Proof of residence prior to January 1, 2011, such as a voter ID, electricity bill, or property tax receipt, will be accepted. Additionally, proof of residence for the past year is mandatory,” he said.

However, Bawankule made it clear that encroachments by individuals who are not Indian citizens will not be regularized under any circumstances.

Implementing officers are required to ensure strict adherence to this guideline. Instructions have been given to file a police report if such encroachments are detected.