Punjab CM Mann defends land pooling policy: ‘No forced acquisition, all about development'

Time of India

4 days ago

Patiala: Punjab chief minister
Bhagwant Mann
on Wednesday addressed sought to clear what he described as "misconceptions" surrounding the state's land pooling policy and the govt's plan to acquire 24,000 acres in Ludhiana's suburbs.
In an interaction with people during his 'AAP Sarkar, Aapke Duwar' event in Patiala, Mann said the state govt was not acquiring land forcibly, but was, instead, seeking the consent and input of farmers and landowners for sustainable urban development projects.
Rejecting claims by opposition parties that the scheme was a scam, Mann said it was transparent and public-friendly. "Some (opposition parties) are creating baseless panic...
I am here today to clarify that we are not taking away anyone's land without their agreement. We are here to seek your advice, ensure your participation, and bring development to your doorstep," he added.
Highlighting practices under past govts, he said land acquisitions used to be opaque. "Earlier, leaders like Sukhbir Badal approved plans, then shared them with their favourite few, the result was massive profiteering by a few, while farmers and common people were left to suffer.
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Those days are gone now. We are committed to transparency and fairness," he added.
The CM also addressed the rampant issue of unapproved colonies in Punjab, a legacy of poor planning and corruption under previous administrations: "Illegal colonies mushroomed across Punjab, leaving residents without basic amenities like sewage, electricity, or potable water. Builders and developers made profits and abandoned people.
Our govt is determined to regulate and redevelop these colonies, ensuring every resident gets access to modern facilities," he said.
Mann stressed on the importance of bringing modern urban planning to rural Punjab. "Our villages deserve the same quality of life as cities. Planned development will ensure proper sewage, parks, electricity, and clean water. This is not just about infrastructure; it's about giving our rural population the dignity they deserve," he said.
The CM criticised opposition parties for spreading fear and misinformation. "Half of these leaders, who now claim to stand with the people, are builders themselves. They are friends with land mafia and were responsible for selling off Punjab's lands to their associates at throwaway prices. They fear our policies because they bring accountability and remove corruption from the system," Mann said.
Mann also cited an example of Akali leader Manpreet Ayali, highlighting his personal stake in opposing the land pooling policy.
"Ayali fears this policy because it brings transparency and accountability, which would end his cosy deals in real estate. Such people are spreading baseless rumours to protect their own businesses, not the interests of farmers. They thrive on chaos and corruption, but their days of exploiting Punjab's resources are over," he said.
He assured all agreements under land pooling policy would be made directly between the govt and landowners, ensuring legal protections and eliminating any chance of exploitation.
"I am here to listen to you and seek your suggestions. Together, we can create a Punjab where every individual prospers and every village shines," Mann said, urging citizens to work with the govt to make Punjab a model state for development.
NEW POLICY EXPLAINED
During an interaction with people in Patiala, CM Bhagwant Mann explained the fundamentals of the state's land-pooling policy:
Voluntary Participation | Landowners can choose whether or not to participate. Those who do not wish to give their land can continue using it for farming or other purposes
Guaranteed Returns | For every acre contributed, landowners receive a residential plot of 1,000 square yards in developed urban areas and commercial Space of 2,00 square yards for shops or showrooms. These plots and spaces, once developed, will have significantly higher market value
No additional costs | All development costs, including roads, drainage, electricity, and water supply infrastructure, will be borne by state govt
'Development will raise value'
For instance, if your land is worth Rs 1 crore per acre today, the developed property you receive in return will be worth Rs 3-4 crore. You can keep the property, rent it for consistent income, or sell it at your discretion
Bhagwant Mann | Punjab CM