Maharashtra government orders probe into church lands
The Maharashtra government has launched investigations into land holdings owned by Christian missions and land purchases by non-farmers in the state. The inquiries follow legislative concerns regarding potential foreign funding and unauthorized land use.
Why it matters
The probe touches on sensitive issues regarding religious institutions, land ownership laws, and potential foreign influence in regional real estate.
The Maharashtra government has initiated separate investigations into land holdings of Christian missions and land purchases by non-farmers in the State. The actions follow questions raised in the Legislative Assembly.
Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule informed the Legislative Assembly that a review of all land records linked to Christian missions in the State is underway. The examination, conducted by the settlement commissioner, has a timeline of three months for completion.
The statement came in response to a question from legislator Devyani Pharande. Bawankule specified that the review will be detailed, particularly focusing on mission lands in Nashik district.
A committee, led by the divisional commissioner, will be formed for a thorough investigation of this matter. This panel will include a senior officer from the settlement commissioner's office, a police department representative, and an official from the office of the Inspector General of Registration.
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