3,982 kanals of custodian land under illegal occupation in Kashmir: Government

Srinagar : The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Friday informed the Legislative Assembly that 3,982 kanals and 1.5 marlas of custodian land in the Kashmir division are under illegal occupation or litigation.

Replying to a question tabled by MLA Abdul Majeed Bhat, the Revenue Department, as per the news agency said that the total notified evacuee (custodian) land in both Jammu and Kashmir divisions stands at 1,44,932 kanals and 6 marlas.

According to the reply, in the Kashmir division, the total notified evacuee land is 55,960 kanals and 15.25 marlas, of which 3,982 kanals, 1.5 marlas, and 97 square feet are under illegal occupation or litigation.

Regarding the steps taken for eviction, the government stated that the Evacuee Property Department has initiated action under the provisions of the J&K Evacuee (Administration of Property) Act, 2006 and the rules framed thereunder for retrieval of such land.

“In the Kashmir division, during the last few years, a substantial chunk of evacuee property measuring 2,441 kanals, 1.5 marlas, and 97 sq ft has been retrieved through eviction of illegal occupants and cancellation of illegal leases/allotments,” the reply said.

The government added that some evacuee land remains under litigation and further action for retrieval will be taken strictly in accordance with the law.—(KNO)