In a groundbreaking decision, the State Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, has declared that land title deeds will be granted to individuals residing on forest land, without any consideration for the size or scope of buildings they have constructed. This move marks a significant shift in land policy.
Under the existing Kerala Land Assignment Rules of 1993, residents who have occupied forest land prior to 1977 are eligible to receive these land titles, subject to approval from the Union government. Over the decades, many of these inhabitants have built homes and other structures on these lands, leading to a complex situation regarding legal ownership.
Recognizing these long-standing realities, and noting that the rules already permit land assignments for commercial establishments like shops on forest land, the Cabinet has opted to broaden the eligibility criteria. This expansion removes the previous requirement to assess the extent of construction when granting ownership. This forward-thinking policy is set to provide crucial relief and officially regularize numerous settlements that have existed in forest areas for a considerable period.