Maharashtra Streamlines Land Violation Regularisation

The Maharashtra government has empowered district collectors to regularize land rule violations, expediting the process. Previously lacking a legal framework, decisions were often delayed. Now, collectors can handle cases with penalties up to Rs 10 lakh, while divisional commissioners can manage cases up to Rs 20 lakh, easing citizen burdens.

The Maharashtra government has taken a significant step to ease the burden on its citizens by empowering district collectors with the authority to regularize certain land rule violations. This move aims to expedite the decision-making process and relieve citizens of the need to travel to Mantralaya for minor cases.

Previously, there was no clear legal framework for regularizing breaches involving government-allotted or leased land. These issues were often settled through government circulars, leading to delays and litigation. Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule emphasized that this new decision fills that critical gap.

According to a recent gazette notification, district collectors can now handle cases with penalties up to Rs 10 lakh, while divisional commissioners can manage those with penalties up to Rs 20 lakh. This development follows amendments to the Maharashtra Land Revenue Code, instructed by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, to provide relief to citizens and farmers.