A massive land scam has rocked Pune, with the state government admitting that 152 Revenue Department officials allegedly tampered with land records of nearly 1.5 lakh farmers to issue illegal orders. The shocking revelation has triggered political uproar and administrative panic across Maharashtra.
The government informed the State Council that an Action Taken Report (ATR) will soon be presented, assuring strict action against all those involved in the scandal.
How the Scam Was Carried Out
According to officials, the accused misused Section 155 of the Maharashtra Land Revenue Code, which is meant only for correcting minor clerical or typographical errors in 7/12 extracts. Instead, it was allegedly used to directly alter ownership records.
Over the last five years, as many as 38,027 illegal orders were passed using this provision. In several cases, land ownership was changed without the consent of farmers, raising serious concerns about fraud and misuse of authority.
The irregularities reportedly surfaced between July and August 2025, exposing what could be one of the largest revenue scams in the state’s history.
Government Promises Strict Action
Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule assured the House that strict action will be taken. He said, “This is a serious matter. Those found guilty will not be spared.”
He also announced a state-wide audit of all orders issued under Section 155 over the past five years to identify similar irregularities across Maharashtra.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has taken serious note of the issue, calling the misuse of legal provisions under the guise of minor corrections a “grave matter.”
Opposition Demands Criminal Action
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anil Parab raised the issue in the House, claiming that over one lakh farmers were directly affected. He demanded immediate suspension of all guilty officials and strict criminal action.
Parab also insisted that cases be filed against key officials, including tehsildars, circle officers, and talathis involved in the fraud.
Another leader, Sachin Ahir, also pushed for swift and decisive action to restore public trust.
Probe Underway, More Shocking Details Expected
The investigation is currently being led by senior IAS officer Praveen Gedam. Preliminary findings suggest large-scale manipulation of land records, including illegal ownership transfers and questionable conversion of agricultural land.
Officials fear that the scam could be even bigger as more records are scrutinized during the upcoming audit.
Farmers Left in Shock
The scam has left thousands of farmers in distress, with many unaware that their land ownership records had been altered. The issue has sparked anger and fear among rural communities, who are now demanding justice and restoration of their land rights.
