Hyderabad: Revenue, Housing and Information & Public Relations Minister Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy on Wednesday directed officials to ensure that no eligible landowner suffers injustice in matters relating to 22A prohibited lands, while safeguarding government land from encroachment and illegal transactions.
The Minister said the government was committed to protecting the rights of genuine landowners. At the same time, it would ensure that government land remained secure.
Reviewing 22A-related issues at the Dr B.R. Ambedkar Telangana State Secretariat, Ponguleti examined media reports, public complaints, High Court directions and the government’s policy. Senior revenue and registration officials attended the meeting.
He clarified that the government had not added even a single cent of land to the 22A prohibited list after assuming office under the leadership of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy. Moreover, he dismissed allegations that the government had included undisputed private land in the prohibited list.
22A prohibited lands cases to be resolved on time
Ponguleti said that although the review focused on districts under the Core Urban Region (CURE), the directions would apply to all district collectors, revenue officials and registration authorities across Telangana.
He instructed officials to understand the government’s policy and implement it in the same spirit. Further, he said authorities should protect the rights of eligible landowners while preserving government land.
The Minister directed officials to examine every case based on facts, land records and legal provisions. Accordingly, they should identify eligible lands and take decisions strictly in accordance with the law.
He instructed officials not to keep any 22A applications or complaints pending. Tahsildars, RDOs, Sub-Collectors and District Collectors should examine every application thoroughly and provide relief to eligible applicants.
Ponguleti also directed officials to prioritise applications received through Prajavani. Meanwhile, they should complete inquiries and dispose of the cases without delay.
The Minister instructed officials to complete proceedings relating to 22A prohibited lands within the 45-day period prescribed by the High Court. He also directed them to consider court orders while resolving disputes.
Ponguleti said protecting government land remained the government’s foremost responsibility. Finally, he instructed district collectors to prevent illegal transactions, unauthorised registrations and encroachments while maintaining a balance between public rights and government interests.