Opposition walks out over Idukki land encroachment allegations

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In the Kerala Assembly, the opposition accused the government of failing to act against large-scale land encroachments in Idukki. They claimed that thousands of acres of government land were taken over with political support, and no action was taken against those responsible. Minister K. Rajan responded, saying that all encroachments would be removed and a special task force might be set up for this.

Opposition leader V.D. Satheesan alleged that fake land titles were used to sell government land for huge profits. Mathew Kuzhalnadan, another opposition member, questioned how rocky areas, which cannot legally be given titles, were granted ownership. He claimed a powerful lobby was involved.

Minister Rajan clarified that genuine immigrants and illegal encroachers would be treated differently. He said the government had collected data on 55,000 people and filed a court affidavit to continue distributing land titles in Idukki. He also promised strict action against confirmed encroachments.

The opposition alleged that politically influential people were behind the encroachments. They pointed out cases where tribal land in Chinnakanal was taken over and a family member of a top official was accused of illegal rock mining. They also noted that a district geologist was transferred after filing a complaint.

Minister Rajan stated that the Elamala forest is not fully protected and that new rules for the Land Registry Amendment Act would be introduced in April. He assured that investigations would continue and encroachers would face strong action.