In a recent twist, the High Court at Madras has made a decision on a land dispute involving the Commissioner of Land Administration and R. Muniyandi, also known as Chandran. The case revolves around the classification of land and the granting of land ownership documents.
The land in question, located in Padiyanallur ex-zamin Village, Tiruvallur District, was taken over by the government in 1951. Initially classified as "Sarkar Wet-Anadheenam," the land was meant to remain under government control. However, things changed when several individuals claimed ownership years later.
In 2011, nearly 49 years after the land settlement, claims were made by Mr. G. Mohan Lal and others, arguing the land was their family property. They sought to change its classification and obtain a land ownership document for a portion of the land. Despite the delay, the Assistant Settlement Officer granted the ownership document.
"The Assistant Settlement Officer granted the land ownership document... but this decision was later challenged."
The Commissioner of Land Administration, using their own authority, canceled the ownership document granted in 2011. The land was ordered to be restored as "Government Nanjai Anadheenam." This decision was based on the fact that the original classification was never legally changed.
The High Court, led by Justice S.M. Subramaniam and Justice Mohammed Shaffiq, agreed with the government's stance. They ruled that the Commissioner had the authority to cancel the ownership document and that the original classification should remain.
"The court found that the Commissioner of Land Administration is empowered to use their own authority to review and change decisions."
The court ruled in favor of the government, confirming that the land should remain under government control and that the late claims for ownership were not valid. This decision highlights the importance of respecting original land classifications and acting within legal time limits.
