Un-regularized slums and illegally constructed homes in urban regions were a major source of worry for Rajasthan urban development and housing (UDH) department. Earlier, the government had made attempts to regularize densely populated slums and to shift economically weaker sections to budget houses constructed under Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana. Taking a step in this direction, Rajasthan government started regularizing slums that were issued survey numbers. Nonetheless, the move was opposed by those that were living in slums for a long time, but haven’t been included in the survey.
Considering the rights of these individuals, the government decided to issue land deeds to individuals that have been living in slums for more than seven years. These land deeds came in handy, now that the government had decided to omit the survey process. As per new laws, the government will regularize slums in Jaipur, based on the land deeds issued in the name of slum dwellers.
Individuals residing in slums can receive this land lease from the UDH department on the basis of any document that verifies their residence period in slums. This announcement was made by UDH minister Srichand Kriplani. Earlier, the authorities had decided to regularize slums that came into existence till 2004. Nevertheless, considering the population explosion in last one decade, the department had shifted the cutoff date to May 2009.
As per new notification, the department will regularize slums that came into existence till 2009. Not only this, the government reformed laws for lease in the case of agricultural land, as well. The department will regularize all colonies built on agricultural land till August 15, 2012. Earlier the date for regularization was June 17, 1999. A valid government ID (voter ID, ration card, Aadhar card etc.) issued in the name of slum owner is acceptable for lease deed verification process.
If the UDH officials are to be believed, this decision would benefit Jaipur residents residing in 250 colonies. It’s applicable for 500 slums spread all over Rajasthan. The responsibility of expediting the process of handing land possession to house owners will be conducted by Rajasthan Housing Board. The board will work in collaboration with JDA officials that will organize roadside camps to issue lease deeds to verified owners.
Concurrently, Rajasthan chief minister Vasundhara Raje directed the officers to organize Shehari Jan Kalyan Shivir in the urban centers so that government can regularize housing societies as well as conduct other land-related works.
