The Jharkhand High Court has directed the State Government to file an affidavit specifying the timeline for completing the long-pending land survey across the State. The directive came from a division bench of Chief Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan and Justice Rajesh Shankar while hearing a PIL filed by Gokul Chand, who raised concern over the incomplete land survey even after five decades.
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Court Expressed Concern Over 50-Year Delay
The bench noted that the land survey process began in 1975 and remains unfinished after nearly 50 years, causing disputes and difficulties in protecting both Government and private land. The court stated that only a time bound survey could ensure the security of land rights for common citizens and proper record-keeping by the State. The Government has been asked to submit its affidavit by 9th October detailing the work completed so far and steps being taken to expedite the process.
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During the hearing, Advocate General Rajiv Ranjan informed the court that survey work has been completed in some districts but many posts of Amin and technical staff remain vacant, slowing progress. The petition also suggested that the Government should accelerate recruitment and adopt modern surveying technology to finish the task efficiently.
Implications for Land Governance
According to Legal experts, a time-bound survey could bring transparency to land ownership records, help resolve disputes, and curb illegal encroachment. The court’s directive is expected to push the State Government to commit to a concrete plan, which could have far-reaching implications for land reforms and development projects in Jharkhand.
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