Land fraud using forged documents; Revenue Vigilance begins investigation

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Revenue Vigilance has started investigating cases of land fraud involving individuals who live permanently abroad. These cases involve the use of forged documents. The investigation is led by Southern Zone Vigilance Deputy Collector, Vijayan. As part of the probe, vigilance inspections have begun in villages in the Chirayinkeezhu and Varkala taluks. A report must be submitted within two weeks. Minister K. Rajan ordered the investigation after Kerala Kaumudi published a news report on March 14 titled "Land grabbing mafia from afar."

Properties in the Varkala and Chirayinkeezhu taluks, registered in the names of individuals living abroad and left unexamined for a long time, were seized. The investigation team has found evidence of 300 land scams in Chirayinkeezhu alone, while Varkala has around 100 cases. However, some officials who took action against these scams were transferred, and the new officials may not be aware of the matter.

Some revenue officials believe that the investigation into these large-scale scams should be handed over to vigilance. Further actions will depend on the Revenue Vigilance report. Authorities have also received confidential information suggesting that similar frauds have occurred in other districts.

Misuse of Law

The law related to adverse possession has been misused in these fraud cases. Under the Income Tax Act of 1966, individuals can claim rights to land they have possessed for over 12 years by paying taxes. This rule, enforced by the Tahsildar, was exploited to create fake documents and embezzle land.