Maharashtra Government Imposes Strict Penalties on Farmers Blocking Access Roads
In a significant move to address land administration irregularities, Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule announced on Friday that farmers who obstruct farm access roads will face disqualification from all government welfare schemes. This policy, part of a broader push to curb encroachments, includes blocking Aadhaar-linked identification and farmer IDs for a period of five years.
Strict Measures Under Mukhyamantri Baliraja Farm Road Scheme
The announcement follows directives from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis under the Mukhyamantri Baliraja Farm Road Scheme, which aims to enhance rural connectivity. Officials emphasized that the policy is designed to ensure uninterrupted access to agricultural land, a critical issue plaguing several districts across the state.
Under the new framework, tehsildars will issue notices for encroachments on roads documented in village records or located on government land. Violators will be given a seven-day window to remove any obstructions. Failure to comply will result in authorities forcibly clearing the blockages.
Protecting Farmers' Rights Amid Infrastructure Projects
Addressing concerns related to large-scale infrastructure developments, Bawankule assured that where highways or railway projects disrupt traditional farm access routes, the government will provide alternative service roads under right-of-way provisions. "Farmers' right of access to their land will be protected," he stated, highlighting the administration's commitment to balancing development with agricultural needs.
Response to Political Allegations and Broader Reforms
When questioned about allegations raised by Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar against NCP (Ajit Pawar) ministers, Bawankule urged restraint, asserting that the inquiry was conducted fairly. He clarified that decisions regarding individuals such as NCP (Ajit Pawar) minister Narhari Zirwal or other political figures would be handled by their respective parties.
The minister also welcomed the Central government's decision to reduce excise duty on fuel, thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi for steps aimed at alleviating inflationary pressures on poorer sections of society.
Administrative Reforms and Land Case Investigations
On administrative reforms, Bawankule disclosed that stamp duty exemption has been approved for land donations, facilitating easier registration of temple properties in their official names.
Regarding the high-profile Mundhwa land case in Pune, the minister confirmed that no clean chit has been issued to anyone involved. A committee led by a principal secretary-level officer is actively investigating the matter, with several officials already suspended. The government has cancelled fraudulent entries and filed cases against those implicated, recovering properties valued at approximately Rs 3,000 crore. Bawankule emphasized that action would be taken "irrespective of status."
Addressing Land Record Irregularities
In a separate case concerning land record irregularities in Pune, misuse of Section 155—intended for minor corrections—allegedly led to unauthorized transfers of land ownership. Around 400 cases have been identified so far, with scrutiny of nearly 4,000 records currently underway. Several officials have been placed on compulsory leave, and further action is anticipated following a report from the law and judiciary department.
Bawankule described the episode as "extremely serious," noting that thousands of similar cases may have occurred. A special team has been constituted to restore land to affected persons. Additionally, reports of similar irregularities in the Konkan region are under investigation, with further actions expected in the coming weeks.
