Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring transparency, accountability, and strict compliance with rules in land registration processes across the state.
While several tech-driven initiatives have already been introduced to boost efficiency and openness, the Revenue and Disaster Management Department has now directed district collectors to maintain strict oversight and regularly monitor the activities of registration offices.
In a communication addressed to all collectors, Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, Arvind Kumar Padhee cited a recent case of land registration fraud in Nuapada district, following which Sarbeswar Jal, Tehsildar of Komna, who was also holding charge as Sub-Registrar, was placed under suspension. Jal was accused of irregularities in the registration of 4.40 acre of land at Chandhopala village. The property was allegedly sold without the knowledge of its actual owners using a purported fake identity.
Given the severity of the matter, the department has ordered collectors to ensure that Additional District Magistrates (ADMs), functioning as district registrars, maintain close supervision and regular monitoring over all registration activities in their respective jurisdictions.
Furthermore, collectors have been instructed to undertake surprise inspections and audits of registration offices to detect and curb such irregularities in a timely manner.
The state government emphasised that leveraging technology to maintain transparency and accountability remains its top priority. “Irregularities will not be tolerated under any circumstances, and strict action will be taken against violators to uphold total compliance with the law,” the official release said.
