Govt. issues order lifting construction ban on patta land in Idukki

The state government has finally issued an official order lifting the construction ban in Idukki district. According to an extraordinary gazette order published on Sunday, land titles (pattas) issued before June 7, 2024 can now be used for various construction activities. These regulations are officially called the Government of Kerala Land Allocation (Permission to Use Allotted Land for Other Purposes) Rules, 2026.

The decision allows the construction of residential, public and commercial buildings, as well as aided educational institutions, on the allocated lands.

“For residential buildings and commercial buildings with plinth area not exceeding 5,000 sq ft, transferees are required to apply using Form A. For public buildings and aided educational institutions, Form B is required. All applications must be submitted to the authorized officer along with an affidavit (Form E) and processing fee of ₹100 remitted to the state treasury online,” the order says.

The decision also states that buildings constructed by registered communities for cultural, recreational, political or charitable purposes are exempt from fees. “For the construction of any commercial or industrial building between 5,000 and 10,000 sq ft, a fee of 1% of the fair value of the land will be charged. For constructions exceeding 10,000 sq ft, payment of 2% of the fair value will be required. Land used for commercial or industrial purposes without a building, as well as construction for any other purpose, will be subject to a charge of 5% of the fair value of the property,” the order said.

Lifting the ban has been a long-time demand of district residents. The Left Democratic Front (LDF) is hoping to make significant political gains from the establishment ahead of the Assembly elections.

Farmers’ groups question the move

Various farmers’ groups, meanwhile, have questioned the timing of the move, claiming that it was an “election fraud” to secure votes. Idukki Land Freedom Movement (ILFM) President Rasak Chooravelil stated that the citizens suffered greatly due to the ban and noted that the decision was made on the day the election dates were announced.

“The current government cannot implement this order in time for the benefit of the people,” Mr. Chooravelil said. “Also, under these rules, shopping sites in areas like Kattappana will still not be able to get title deeds; this is a long-term demand from local vendors.”