Jammu, Jan 8: The administration initiated a significant operation on Wednesday targeting individuals with large assets but no verified income sources. Notices were issued to land grabbers encroaching on over 46 acres of valuable state land in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district, instructing them to reveal their income origins.
An official representative stated that notifications were sent to the encroachers in Panchayat Chak Desa Choudharian, located in Tehsil Marheen, demanding the immediate evacuation of 372 kanals (more than 46 acres) of unlawfully occupied state land.
The notices require not only the vacating of the property but also the disclosure of income and funding sources that financed the illegal structures on the encroached land.
“This action is part of the administration’s comprehensive approach to tackle the issue of illicit wealth accumulation and unauthorized occupation of government property,” the representative stated.
The official noted that numerous individuals had illegally seized considerable areas of state land in the vicinity and have been booked under the Public Safety Act (PSA) for their engagement in criminal activities.
The administration cautioned that non-compliance with these notices would lead to severe legal repercussions, including the demolition of unauthorized constructions and criminal charges against the encroachers.
Authorities emphasized that individuals unable to present legitimate proof of income or assets would undergo intensive scrutiny, facing potential legal penalties.
“This initiative is part of the ongoing efforts of the Kathua district administration to reclaim public land and combat illegal activities that threaten the rule of law,” the representative stated.
The administration reaffirmed its dedication to investigating assets acquired through unlawful means and ensuring those partaking in illicit activities face rigorous legal consequences.
Deputy Commissioner Dr. Rakesh Minhas, along with the sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) of Hiranagar and Tehsildar Marheen, visited the encroachment site.
Dr. Minhas underscored the administration’s zero-tolerance stance regarding land grabbing and the illegal accumulation of wealth.
He called upon encroachers to maintain transparency by clarifying the sources of income utilized for construction. Furthermore, he warned that individuals engaged in criminal enterprises, including drug and bovine smuggling, will face stringent legal action.
The administration appealed to the citizens of Kathua for their support in this initiative, encouraging them to assist in swiftly addressing illegal encroachments and criminal activities.
