Crackdown on Land Fraud: Major Administrative Action in Garhwal, 51 Cases Resolved, FIRs Ordered in 5
Dehradun, April 6, 2026
Under the Chief Minister’s zero tolerance policy, the administration has intensified its crackdown on land fraud cases across the Garhwal region. A crucial meeting of the Land Fraud Coordination Committee was held on Monday at the Camp Office near Survey Chowk under the chairmanship of Garhwal Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey, where pending and new cases were reviewed in detail.
During the meeting, the committee examined 11 pending cases and 51 fresh complaints, resolving a total of 51 cases, while FIRs were ordered in 5 cases.
Major Irregularities Exposed: Same Land Sold Twice
Several shocking cases came to light during the review. In some instances, land mafias had sold the same plot (same Khasra number) to multiple buyers and even facilitated illegal possession on different land parcels. Strict action has been directed in such cases.
Legal Violations Found, SIT Probe Ordered
In one case, individuals from Rajasthan purchased land in Rudraprayag for residential purposes but constructed a hotel and later sold it. The legal review found violations of land laws, following which directions were issued to vest the land with the government and register FIRs against the accused.
In cases where land fraud was clearly evident, SIT investigations have also been ordered.
Strict Warning to Officials: No Negligence Will Be Tolerated
The Commissioner issued firm instructions to all officials:
- Ensure swift disposal of all land fraud cases
- Complete joint inspections within a week and submit reports
- Any errors or negligence will lead to accountability of concerned officials
He also expressed displeasure over the absence of certain अधिकारियों and ordered explanations.
Mandatory FIRs in Encroachment Cases
On cases involving illegal कब्जा on government land, the Commissioner directed that:
- FIRs must be mandatorily registered
- Police must ensure effective and time-bound investigations
77 Out of 170 Cases Heard So Far
Out of a total of 170 land fraud cases, 77 have been heard so far, with 51 cases resolved. Reports on the remaining cases have been sought within a week.
The Commissioner stated that another review meeting will be held within 15 days to ensure speedy justice for complainants.
Clear Message: Act Fast, Do Not Delay Cases
Commissioner Vinay Shankar Pandey emphasized:
“No laxity or negligence in land fraud cases will be tolerated. All cases must be handled promptly and effectively.”
Officials Present
Senior officials from police and administration attended the meeting, including IG Garhwal Rajiv Swaroop, Additional Commissioner Uttam Singh Chauhan, SP (Rural) Jaya Baluni, and several SDMs and Tehsildars from across the region.
