Illegal plotting transactions in Gajapati district have now taken the form of an organized syndicate. While agricultural land is being sold in pieces in the form of plots, there is talk of a large network working behind it. Surprisingly, land transactions worth crores of rupees are going on openly despite the fact that there is not a single registered real estate company or developer in the district. According to official data, only 3 layouts have been approved in Gajapati district in the last 10 years. But the reality is completely different. Hundreds of acres of land of the Sarad, Bari, and Dungar varieties have been divided into small plots and sold in different parts of the district. According to the rules, RERA registration is also mandatory in cases where it is mandatory to first change the type of land for residential or commercial use and then get layout approval. But in many places, neither the variety has been changed nor the layout has been approved. However, the plot sale is going on vigorously.
It is alleged that despite open advertisements through social media, banners, and pamphlets, no action is being taken by the concerned department. According to the information of the Sub-District Collector, there is not a single registered real estate property in the district. So on what basis and with whose permission is this plotting business going on? Why is no action being taken against the person or group who is illegally plotting and selling agricultural land?
Is the administration keeping quiet despite knowing everything, or is there any encouragement from influential individuals and politicians behind this? This has now raised a huge question mark. People who have bought plots without approval may face problems in getting house construction permits, electricity connections, drinking water, and other government facilities in the future. In such a situation, the district administration, revenue department, municipal council, and town planning authority are demanded to immediately conduct a coordinated investigation and crack down on illegal putting and take strict action against the culprits. Laxman Kumar Murmu, Special Planning Authority, Parlakhemundi, said that people are being made aware of this. He also said that discussions will be held with the Parlakhemundi Deputy Commissioner, and if any specific complaint is received, then action will be taken as per the law.
