Nazool Lands: 12 Feb, 2024

Definition:

• Nazool land is owned by the government and can be leased to entities for a period, typically between 15 to 99 years. 

• This land is not directly managed by the state but is allocated for various purposes through a lease agreement.

Origin:

• The lands confiscated from kings and royals who opposed the British rule were labeled as Nazool land after Independence, due to the absence of proper ownership documents from the former rulers.

Usage: 

• The government uses Nazool land mainly for public services such as schools, hospitals, and housing societies, among others. 

Legal Framework:

• It’s managed under specific rules, with The Nazool Lands (Transfer) Rules, 1956 being a common legal framework.

Why in News:

• In Haldwani (Uttarakhand), a demolition drive related to Nazool land owned by the Nagar Nigam (Municipal Council) sparked controversy. The local administration conducted this drive to clear traffic congestion, asking for encroachments to be removed.
•  The situation escalated when locals sought to challenge the demolition order in the High Court, leading to disputes and violence.