Land registration curbs lifted by Telugu Desam government

Hyderabad: Three days after imposing restrictions on the registration of agricultural lands in the state, the Andhra Pradesh government on Monday issued orders putting on hold the contentious clause in GO 398, following widespread anger and protest from the public.

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister K.E. Krishna Murthy, who also holds the revenue portfolio, issued a statement stating the mandatory clause of seeking revenue sub-division officer’s approval to register agricultural land is being put on hold for now.

“Registration of agricultural lands can be done as per the existing system, i.e. in tune with rules that have been there before GO 398 was issued on November 28,” he said.

It may be mentioned that the GO 398 resulted in land registrations coming to a halt in the state. Confusion prevailed over the GO as it lacked clarity. 

Deccan Chronicle carried a report in these columns about the GO imposing restrictions.

However, the Deputy CM defended the GO stating it was issued to protect the interests of farmers.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s government will ensure that farmers are not taken for a ride by the realtors. However, there has been a widespread outcry over the GO.

The clause of seeking sub-divisional officer’s scrutiny and approval is being put on hold,” he added.

In the GO MS No. 398, issued by revenue department principal secretary S.P. Singh, the government said it was amending certain provisions of the Andhra Pradesh Rules under the Registration Act, 1908.

Mr Singh had said that the amendments are aimed at protecting the interests of the gullible people from realtors who make illegal layouts in agriculture lands and sell them.

Ultimately, the buyer is at loss as permission cannot be granted for construction of houses in such layouts.

To curb this menace, the government issued GO 398 making it mandatory for approval and verification of competent authorities before registration.