Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0 Introduces Stricter Penalties for Government Land Encroachment
In a significant move to curb unlawful occupation and encroachment of government land and public premises, the second edition of the Jan Vishwas Bill proposes heavy fines linked to land value, alongside potential jail time. The bill, introduced in the Lok Sabha on Friday, aims to deter land grabbing and unauthorized use of public assets through enhanced legal measures.
Enhanced Penalties for Unauthorized Occupation
The bill seeks to amend Section 11 of the Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, which currently provides for six months' imprisonment, a fine of Rs 5,000, or both. Under the new proposal, the penalty would be set at 5% of the land's value for every year of occupation, in addition to the possibility of six months in jail. Officials believe this stricter approach will effectively discourage encroachment and protect government properties from illegal claims.
Progressive Penalties for Repeat Offenders
For unauthorized occupants of public premises, the bill introduces a telescopic penalty structure. Offenders would be liable to pay 40 times the licence fee (rent to the government) for the first month, with the penalty increasing by 10% each subsequent month. Repeat offenders face even harsher consequences, with penalties starting at 50 times the licence fee for the first month and escalating monthly. This measure is designed to take strict action against those illegally occupying government land or premises, ensuring accountability and compliance.
Metro Railways and Motor Vehicle Act Amendments
The bill also addresses nuisances on metro trains, such as drunkenness, sitting on the floor, spitting, carrying offensive materials, and holding demonstrations. It proposes to amend provisions of the Metro Railways (Operation and Maintenance) Act to increase fines from Rs 500 to Rs 2,500, aiming to maintain order and safety in public transit systems.
Additionally, the bill includes amendments to over 20 provisions of the Motor Vehicle Act. Key changes include allowing vehicle registration throughout a state instead of within a specific RTO jurisdiction, and permitting driving licence renewals to take effect from the date of renewal application rather than the expiry date, provided the application is made after expiry. It also extends the time period for reporting cancellation of vehicle registration from 14 days to 30 days, and for intimating insurers about transfers in insurance certificates from 14 days to 30 days.
Shift from Fine to Penalty
A notable change in the bill is the replacement of the term "fine" with "penalty." While fines are typically disposed of by courts, penalties can be collected directly by regulatory authorities, streamlining enforcement and ensuring quicker resolution of violations. This shift aims to enhance the efficiency of legal processes and strengthen regulatory oversight.
The Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0 represents a comprehensive effort to modernize and tighten laws governing public property and transportation, with a focus on deterring illegal activities through substantial financial and legal consequences.
