The Kerala High Court has mandated the establishment of a dedicated Special Task Force (STF) to investigate land encroachments in Munnar and surrounding villages in Idukki district. This directive was issued on October 22 during the hearing of several long-standing writ petitions and contempt proceedings related to land issues in the region.

The court’s decision reflects growing concerns regarding the lack of effective action despite numerous reports and legal actions over the years. A Division Bench comprising Justices Devan Ramachandran and Basant Balaji expressed their frustration at the inaction that has persisted despite official reports dating back to 2003.

The court noted that various reports from government officials and committees, including those led by the Additional Chief Secretary and the Revenue Secretary, had failed to result in tangible outcomes. This situation has reportedly allowed vested interests to exploit the confusion arising from the multiple reports.

The Bench highlighted that without decisive action, the issue of land encroachments could remain unresolved for an extended period. The court’s directive aims to ensure that the recommendations from previous reports are implemented effectively, thereby restoring control over government land and properties in the affected areas.

Composition and Responsibilities of the STF

The proposed STF is expected to comprise senior officials from the Revenue and Police departments, along with representatives from other relevant government bodies. The court also took into account suggestions from amicus curiae Harish Vasudevan regarding the structure and operational framework of the task force. The Bench instructed that the officers assigned to the STF be relieved of their regular duties for a minimum of six months, allowing them to concentrate solely on the task at hand.

The STF’s responsibilities will extend beyond those of the existing Special Investigation Team, which is currently addressing cases involving fraudulent land title deeds, known as pattayams. The court has emphasised the need for a more comprehensive approach to tackle the ongoing land encroachments in Munnar and neighbouring villages.

Additional Advocate General K C Vincent, along with Government Pleader Raphael Thekkan, informed the court that the state government is amenable to forming a high-level task force aimed at restoring order and control over the properties in question. This commitment indicates the government’s recognition of the urgency of the situation.

Future Proceedings and Expected Outcomes

He proposed that experienced administrators, including former district collectors of Idukki and officers from the Special Investigation Team, be considered for inclusion in the dedicated task force. The court has instructed the state government to compile a list of officers who can work exclusively with the STF, which will be reviewed during the next hearing scheduled for October 29.

The High Court aims to ensure that the STF is well-equipped to act on prior reports, effectively address land encroachments, and secure government control over properties in Munnar and its surrounding areas. The final structure and operational framework of the STF will be determined in the upcoming court session, marking a significant step towards resolving the longstanding issues of land encroachment in the region.

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