Kochi: The High Court has delivered a scathing critique of the government, highlighting its lack of sincerity in evicting the encroachments in Munnar. The criticism follows a report by the amicus curiae, indicating that the government has failed to adhere to the assurances given in court.
The court observed the government’s laxity in implementing the interim orders and directed the formation of a high-level committee led by the Revenue Principal Secretary. This committee, comprising the Land Revenue Commissioner and Disaster Management Commissioner, will oversee the encroachment and eviction process. The division bench, consisting of Justice Mohammed Mushtaq and Justice Shobha Annamma Eapen, issued the directive, demanding the committee’s first report by the end of this month.
Expressing dismay over the government’s delayed response to land encroachments and fake documents in Idukki, the court emphasized that top officials have been reporting on these issues for decades without effective action. The court pointed out the Land Assignment Rules introduced in 1964, which was for public interest and criticized the 1971 amendment, which allegedly facilitated land transfer to encroachers.
The court has decided to scrutinize the legality of the 1971 amendment and directed the issuance of a notice to the Chief Secretary. The Advocate General has been summoned to appear in court. The decision of the court to take action is based on the report submitted by Amicus Curiae Adv. Harish Vasudevan, emphasizing the government’s failure to comply with the assurances provided to the court.
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