Khurda investigates illegal plot registrations violating regulations

Residents in Khurda district have raised concerns about illegal plot registrations. They filed complaints with local authorities about 55 part plots registered by the sub-registrar, which violate the Odisha Development Authority (ODA) Act and the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act. These registrations occurred despite a ban on such transactions. Affected owners are facing numerous problems, including issues with layout approvals, loan sanctions, land possession, and plot marking. In response to these complaints, the Khurda collector has asked for a report from the sub-registrar and the Inspector General of Revenue (IGR) about recent registrations. The IGR's report confirmed the 55 illegal registrations. As a result, the additional district magistrates issued a show-cause notice to the sub-registrar, asking why their actions violated the ODA Act and high court orders requiring proper permissions for such registrations. One complainant, Sambit Samal, expressed frustration, stating that they faced many issues after the wrongful registrations. The assistant district magistrate is seeking a detailed response from the sub-registrar and the IGR regarding the situation. The case highlights major concerns about real estate regulations in the area. The assistant district magistrate has also requested that all local sub-registrars provide information on part plot registrations completed during the same time period. Real estate expert Bimalendu Pradhan has criticized the situation, alleging corruption among sub-registrar officials. He noted that despite high court intervention to enforce compliance, some continue to disregard regulations, which burdens residents. Pradhan called for strong actions to address these violations.