In Jammu and Kashmir, large-scale encroachment of public land continues to undermine development and governance. Official figures reveal that over 18.38 lakh kanals of land—including more than 17.22 lakh kanals of state land and 1.15 lakh kanals of forest land—remain under illegal occupation. In comparison, only around 29,067 kanals have been retrieved so far, reflecting a slow and inadequate response to a growing crisis.
A few years ago, the administration under the Lieutenant Governor initiated an anti-encroachment drive aimed at reclaiming illegally occupied land, particularly from influential individuals. While some properties were officially retrieved and transferred to government departments for public use, the ground reality remains largely unchanged. In several cases, encroachers continue to occupy the same land despite official records showing otherwise.
One such example is the Balole Industrial Estate in Bari Brahmana, Samba district. In 2023, over 500 kanals were transferred to the Industries and Commerce Department. However, only a portion of this land was physically taken over, while a significant area continues to remain encroached. This has delayed infrastructure development and prevented the allocation of plots to entrepreneurs, affecting economic growth in the region.
Although the anti-encroachment drive initially promised strict action against powerful land grabbers while protecting ordinary citizens, progress has been uneven. Some districts reported limited success, but overall retrieval efforts have not matched the scale of encroachment.
Following the formation of the elected government in late 2024, expectations were high for faster and more transparent action. While certain steps, such as the retrieval of land belonging to displaced communities, have been taken, the broader issue of state land encroachment remains unresolved.
Recent legislative developments, including proposals related to the Land Grants Act, have also raised concerns about potentially weakening enforcement mechanisms. Observers fear that such changes could further complicate efforts to remove illegal occupants.
Experts and citizens alike stress that effective land retrieval requires firm timelines, accurate digital records, strict legal action against violators, and complete physical transfer of reclaimed land. Without decisive measures, encroachment will continue to hinder development, reduce public resources, and erode trust in governance.
Ensuring the protection and proper use of public land is essential for the region’s economic progress and institutional credibility.
