HC asks govt to apply mind to land conversion problems

Madras High Court today made it clear that the conversion of agricultural land to Urban land has to be an administrative decision and to an extent may require legislative changes, for which the Government must seriously apply its mind to the problem.
First Bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Justice T.S. Sivaganam made the remark while disposing of a PIL by advocate 'Elephant' Rajendran seeking to forbear the authorities concerned from giving approval or permission to convert agricultural land into layouts.
"If a particular area is used for agriculture, even if smaller portions are acquired, there is no reason to grant permissions for conversion of the same to urban use. The designated use as per the plan should be adhered to. This inturn requires a clear planning process for every other area," the court said.

The petitioner expressed concern over conversion of agricultural land for urban use in an unauthorized manner.
"It is trite to say that when society develops, urbanization does take place. However the urbanisation process should go on in an organized manner so that planning process of the Government makes it clear as to what lands are to be put to agricultural use and what lands are to be put to urban use.
The court said it expected the authorities concerned to look into these aspects and submit a report, and posted the matter for compliance on October 9 next.