NHRC orders independent probe into 22-A land row in Telangana

The NHRC directed Telangana Chief Secretary K Sanjay Jaju to conduct an independent inquiry into private properties included in the 22-A prohibited list. It sought a comprehensive report within four weeks and immediate relief for affected property owners.

Hyderabad: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) directed Telangana Chief Secretary K Sanjay Jaju to conduct an independent inquiry into the inclusion of private properties in the 22-A prohibited list and take steps to provide relief to affected owners. The Commission directed the Chief Secretary to submit a comprehensive report within four weeks and also sought steps to provide immediate relief to those affected.

The NHRC observed that placing the properties of ordinary citizens in the prohibited list without adequate basis amounted to a violation of their human rights, according to the complaint.

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The NHRC issued the directions following a complaint filed by Hyderabad-based advocate and social activist Karupothula Revanth on September 14. The complaint alleged that the State government arbitrarily and illegally included lakhs of private patta lands, house sites and properties in the prohibited list during the transition from the Dharani portal to the Bhu Bharati portal without prior notices, a hearing or gazette notifications.

The complainant said property owners were unable to sell, mortgage or otherwise deal with their property, causing financial difficulties and mental distress to them. He said this also opened avenues for corruption and extortion by officials and middlemen, and sought an urgent inquiry, independent investigation and relief for citizens.