Shillong, Feb 17: Cabinet Minister Lahkmen Rymbui has stated that there have been no reports of forceful encroachment or illegal alienation of tribal land in the state, stating that all land transfers are conducted according to the due process of law.
Responding to the special motion moved by Nongkrem MLA Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit on the increasing alienation of tribal land, Rymbui described land as a “complex and sensitive issue” and acknowledged the concerns raised by members, including Leader of Opposition Mukul Sangma.
He highlighted multiple authorities involved in land management, including clans, traditional heads, and autonomous district councils (ADCs), each with distinct roles recognised by the constitution. He said this complexity makes it challenging for any single authority to infringe upon the rights of individuals.
The minister pointed out that land management in the state is largely vested with the Autonomous District Councils under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
In Garo Hills, land is governed by the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council Land and Revenue Regulation, 1954; in Khasi Hills, by the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (Recreation and Admission of Land) Act, 2021; and in Jaintia Hills, by the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council (Management and Control of Land, Assessment and Collection of Revenue and Recreation) Act, 1985.
These laws, he said, are meant to streamline landholding systems within their respective jurisdictions. The state government administers only government revenue land and oversees land transfers between tribal and non-tribal persons.
Rymbui also recalled that Meghalaya was created as the 21st state of India under the North Eastern Areas (Reorganisation) Act, 1971, and came into existence on January 21, 1972. While land management is primarily vested with the ADCs, certain statutory responsibilities remain with the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, particularly concerning government land.
The Assam Land and Revenue Regulation, 1886, adopted by Meghalaya in 1972 with modifications, continues to apply to government land, except in areas under the ADCs.
Rymbui said the Meghalaya Land Survey and Records Preparation Act, 1980 provides for land surveys and preparation of land records. An amendment in 1991 involved the ADCs in its implementation, and cadastral surveys are being carried out with financial and technical support from the state government.
He acknowledged that some individuals possess large tracts of land while others do not. He noted that achieving uniformity in land holdings is a significant challenge, necessitating extensive discussions among the stakeholders.
Rymbui reaffirmed the government’s commitment to regulating land transactions and preventing illegal alienation by strictly following the legal provisions. This includes ensuring proper documentation and adherence to laws governing land acquisition.
