Land Minister Narayon Chandra Chanda has instructed deputy commissioners (DCs) to enforce a zero-tolerance policy against corruption within their respective jurisdictions.
In his address to the DCs at the DC Conference 2024 held in the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital, Minister Chanda stressed the importance of honesty and transparency in government affairs. He highlighted the government's firm stance against corruption under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, emphasizing the responsibility of public servants to uphold these principles.
Minister Chanda emphasised the need to cultivate a culture of accountability and integrity among government officials. He also provided updates on legislative developments, informing the DCs that the rules for the Land Crime Prevention and Redress Act are in the final stages of drafting. He expressed hope that the rules would be issued within a month and directed the DCs to ensure swift implementation of the law to provide remedies to victims of land-related crimes.
Regarding food security, Minister Chanda underscored the importance of protecting croplands, particularly triple-cropping lands, for agricultural purposes only. He mentioned ongoing efforts to governmentalize scheduled 'Ka' properties to further safeguard agricultural lands.
The Land Secretary informed the DCs about ongoing work on drafting rules related to three new land-related laws and the Ministry of Land's efforts to fill vacant positions at the field level. He highlighted the completion of recruitment for Union Land Deputy Assistant Officers and Surveyors and the Ministry's policy decision to appoint night guards in Union Land Offices.
During the session, DCs expressed their views and raised questions on various land management issues, including mutation, land office construction, and digitalization.
Following the session, Minister Chanda participated in a press briefing where he addressed journalists' questions on land-related issues. He clarified procedures for dealing with plots consisting of both vested and privately owned land and outlined measures for canceled 'B' schedule properties.
Minister Chanda's directives underscore the government's commitment to combat corruption and promote transparency in land administration, ensuring the efficient and equitable management of land resources.
