Vellore: After the land ownership controversy that rattled Tiruchendurai village in 2022, a similar crisis has now erupted in Kattukollai village of Tamil Nadu’s Vellore district. Around 150 families have been left shocked and distressed after receiving notices declaring their agricultural land as Waqf property, allegedly belonging to the Syed Ali Sultan Shah Dargah.
The notices, issued earlier in February, claim that the land comes under the purview of the Tamil Nadu Waqf Board. As per the contents, villagers have been directed to enter into agreements with the Dargah’s management and start paying rent. If they fail to comply, the land would be deemed as encroached property under Waqf laws and subject to legal reclamation.
The affected families, most of whom have resided and farmed on the land for over four generations, have expressed panic and frustration. Claiming that they possess valid land documents issued by the government, the villagers marched to the Vellore District Collector’s office to submit a memorandum, urging swift intervention.
Backed by members of the Hindu Munnani, the villagers demanded that the district administration recognise their ownership and issue official pattas to avoid future disputes. “This land is our only source of livelihood. The sudden claim has thrown our lives into uncertainty,” said a local farmer.
Hindu Munnani leader Mahesh, who led the protest, questioned how land with government records could be suddenly declared Waqf property. “Survey Number 330/1 has never been under dispute. Now we’re being asked to pay rent or vacate. The administration must act before this spirals further,” he said.
