Telangana Land Alienation
Telangana Land Alienation
A Visual Guide to Telangana’s Land Alienation Laws
Why These Laws Matter
Land alienation has historically deprived vulnerable communities of their primary source of livelihood. Telangana’s legal framework provides a robust shield to prevent this exploitation. These laws are not just punitive; they are designed for restorative justice, ensuring land is returned to those it rightfully belongs to.
The primary goal is to reverse illegal transfers and restore land rights to Scheduled Tribes and the landless poor.
Primary Beneficiaries of Land Protection
Two Pillars of Protection
Scheduled Areas LTR, 1959
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Beneficiary: Members of Scheduled Tribes (STs) living in designated Scheduled Areas.
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Core Rule: Any land transfer from an ST member to a Non-ST member is void.
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Key Feature: Burden of proof is on the non-tribal occupant to prove their possession is legal.
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Outcome: Land is restored to the original tribal owner.
Telangana POT Act, 1977
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Beneficiary: Landless poor individuals who have been “assigned” land by the government.
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Core Rule: Assigned lands cannot be sold or transferred. Any such transfer is void.
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Key Feature: Applies to all lands granted by the govt. with a non-alienation clause.
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Outcome: Land is resumed by the government for re-assignment.
What Happens to Illegally Transferred Land?
YES, LTR Violated
(Tribal to Non-Tribal)
YES, POT Act Violated
(Assigned Land Sold)
Who Solves the Disputes?
High Court / Supreme Court
Role: Legal Oversight, Interpretation of Law, Writ Jurisdiction. Ensures tribunals act fairly.
Special Tribunals & Authorities
Role: Speedy, summary resolution. Can start cases ‘suo motu’ (on their own). E.g., District Collector, RDO.
