The Haryana Cabinet on Monday gave its nod to the Haryana Village Common Lands (Regulation) Ordinance, 2026, amending the existing Act of 1961, with the primary aim of accelerating the disposal of pending cases related to the sale of shamlat deh land. The decision is expected to provide timely relief to applicants who have constructed houses on such land.
Delegation of Powers to Deputy Commissioners
Under the previous provisions, the Director of the Development and Panchayats Department held the sole authority to approve the sale of shamlat deh land to eligible applicants who had built houses on such land on or before March 31, 2004. However, due to a large backlog of applications, the Cabinet has now delegated these approval powers to the respective Deputy Commissioners. This move is aimed at ensuring faster processing and disposal of cases at the district level, thereby reducing delays.
Haryana State Commission for Women (Amendment) Ordinance
In another significant decision, the Cabinet approved the Haryana State Commission for Women (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026. The amendment increases the number of non-official members of the commission from five to seven. This expansion comes in response to the rising number of complaints being received by the commission, and is intended to strengthen its capacity to address women's issues effectively.
Adoption of Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Act, 2024
The Cabinet also adopted the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Act, 2024. This central legislation decriminalises minor offences under the Water Act, promotes ease of doing business, and revises the procedure for appointing chairpersons of State Pollution Control Boards. The move aligns with the government's efforts to simplify regulatory compliance and encourage industrial growth while maintaining environmental safeguards.
Revision of Pay Scales for District Judges
Additionally, the Cabinet approved amendments to the Haryana Superior Judicial Service Rules, 2007. These amendments revise the pay scales for district judges and introduce updated norms for Selection Grade. The changes are part of ongoing judicial reforms aimed at improving the service conditions and career progression of judicial officers in the state.
