Meghalaya government reaffirms commitment to protect tribal land rights

SHILLONG: Meghalaya minister in-charge of revenue and disaster management, Kyrmen Shylla, stated that the government is commitment to protect the land rights of tribal communities in Meghalaya.

Speaking during a half-hour discussion in the Meghalaya assembly on Friday, Shylla clarified that all land transfers in the state are strictly governed by the Meghalaya Transfer of Land Regulation Act, 1971, and its accompanying rules from 1974.

Addressing concerns raised by Adelbert Nongrum, a legislator from the opposition VPP representing North Shillong, Shylla stated, "The government’s intention is clear. The Act and Rules are followed in letter and spirit to protect the interests of the tribals in the state."

Shylla explained that every case of land transfer must be processed through the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, ensuring adherence to the legal provisions.

"Any case involving transfer, mutation, mortgage, or a will must align with the regulations set out in the Meghalaya Transfer of Land Regulation Act," he said.

Key Provisions of the Land Transfer Act

The minister highlighted that Section 3 of the Act, along with its subsequent amendments, is central to preventing unauthorized land transfers.

This section specifically prohibits the transfer of land from a tribal to a non-tribal or between non-tribals without the prior permission of the competent authority.

"This section was further strengthened in 1973, allowing the government to impose restrictions on land transfers within specified areas," Shylla noted.

"Additionally, a 1991 amendment introduced another proviso, exempting certain types of land transfers under specific conditions outlined in Section 4 of the Act."

Shylla reiterated that the primary objective of the Meghalaya Transfer of Land (Regulation) Act, 1971, is to safeguard the interests of the state's Scheduled Tribes by regulating land transfers.

The government follows a stringent procedure to ensure compliance with the Act.

Procedure for Land Transfer

Outlining the process for land transfers, Shylla detailed the steps involved:

1. Application Submission: The buyer must submit an application to the Deputy Commissioner, including details such as the names and addresses of the buyer and seller, a description of the land, the sale agreement, and other verified documents.
2. Verification: Upon receiving the application, the Deputy Commissioner verifies its legitimacy and evaluates it in accordance with the provisions of the Act.
3. Recommendation: The proposal is then forwarded with recommendations to the Revenue and Disaster Management Department.
4. Approval: If the proposal meets the criteria outlined in the Act, it is approved by the competent authority.