Resolution calls for local residents to receive first preference; Asalde Gram Sabha reportedly adopts a similar stand
The Munge Gram Sabha in Devgad taluka has unanimously adopted a resolution seeking restrictions on the sale of agricultural and residential land to buyers from outside Sindhudurg.
By Rajan Chavan
Devgad, Sindhudurg: The Munge Gram Sabha in Sindhudurg district’s Devgad taluka has unanimously adopted a resolution seeking restrictions on the sale of agricultural and residential land to individuals, institutions and companies from outside the district and other states.
The resolution was passed at a special Gram Sabha meeting held recently under the Munge Gram Panchayat.
According to the resolution, agricultural and residential land constitutes a vital foundation for the village’s economic and social development. The Gram Sabha expressed concern over what it described as a growing trend of land purchases by buyers from outside Sindhudurg and Maharashtra.
Members voiced apprehension that such land could eventually be consolidated or transferred for large commercial, industrial or infrastructure projects, potentially affecting local landholding patterns and the long-term interests of residents.
Citing the need to safeguard the land rights, livelihoods and security of local communities, the Gram Sabha unanimously resolved that land within the jurisdiction of Munge Gram Panchayat should not be sold to individuals, institutions or companies from outside Sindhudurg district.
The resolution further states that when a landowner needs to sell property under exceptional circumstances, preference should first be given to residents of the village. It also calls upon landowners to inform the Gram Panchayat before proceeding with any such transaction.
A similar resolution has reportedly been adopted by the Gram Sabha of Asalde village in Kankavli taluka, opposing the sale of local land to buyers from outside the region.
The resolutions reflect growing concern among local communities over external acquisition of land in Sindhudurg. However, their legal implementation would remain subject to existing property, registration and revenue laws and any decision taken by the competent authorities.
The statutory powers of Gram Sabhas and village panchayats are governed by the Maharashtra Village Panchayats Act
