Punjab CM says no forced acquisition under land pooling policy, all about development

                Patiala: Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday addressed sought to clear what he described as "misconceptions" surrounding the state's land pooling policy 
and the 
govt's plan to acquire 24,000 acres in Ludhiana's suburbs. In an interaction with people during his ‘AAP Sarkar, Aapke Duwar' event in Patiala, Mann said the state govt 
was not 
acquiring land forcibly, but was, instead, seeking the consent and input of farmers and landowners for sustainable urban development projects. Rejecting claims by 
opposition parties 
that the scheme was a scam, Mann said it was transparent and public-friendly. "Some (opposition parties) are creating baseless panic... I am here today to clarify that we 
are not 
taking away anyone's land without their agreement. We are here to seek your advice, ensure your participation, and bring development to your doorstep," he added. 
Highlighting 
practices under past govts, he said land acquisitions used to be opaque. "Earlier, leaders like Sukhbir Badal approved plans, then shared them with their favorite few, the 
result was 
massive profiteering by a few, while farmers and common people were left to suffer.
Those days are gone now. We are committed to transparency and fairness," he added. The CM also addressed the rampant issue of unapproved colonies in Punjab, a 
legacy of poor 
planning and corruption under previous administrations: "Illegal colonies mushroomed across Punjab, leaving residents without basic amenities like sewage, electricity, or 
potable 
water. Builders and developers made profits and abandoned people. Our govt is determined to regulate and redevelop these colonies, ensuring every resident gets access 
to modern 
facilities," he said. Mann stressed on the importance of bringing modern urban planning to rural Punjab. "Our villages deserve the same quality of life as cities. Planned 
development 
will ensure proper sewage, parks, electricity, and clean water. This is not just about infrastructure; it's about giving our rural population the dignity they deserve," he said.The 
CM 
criticised opposition parties for spreading fear and misinformation. "Half of these leaders, who now claim to stand with the people, are builders themselves. They are friends 
with land 
mafia and were responsible for selling off Punjab's lands to their associates at throwaway prices. They fear our policies because they bring accountability and remove 
corruption from 
the system," Mann said. Mann also cited an example of Akali leader Manpreet  Ayali, highlighting his personal stake in opposing the land pooling policy. "Ayali fears this 
policy because 
it brings transparency and accountability, which would end his cosy deals in real estate. Such people are spreading baseless rumours to protect their own businesses, not 
the interests 
of farmers. They thrive on chaos and corruption, but their days of exploiting Punjab's resources are over," he said. He assured all agreements under land pooling policy 
would be made 
directly between the govt and landowners, ensuring legal protections and eliminating any chance of exploitation. "I am here to listen to you and seek your suggestions. 
Together, we 
can create a Punjab where every individual prospers and every village shines," Mann said, urging citizens to work with the govt to make Punjab a model state for 
development. NEW 
POLICY EXPLAINED During an interaction with people in Patiala, CM Bhagwant Mann explained the fundamentals of the state's land-pooling policy: Voluntary Participation 
| 
Landowners can choose whether or not to participate. Those who do not wish to give their land can continue using it for farming or other purposes Guaranteed Returns | 
For every 
acre contributed, landowners receive a residential plot of 1,000 square yards in developed urban areas and commercial Space of 2,00 square yards for shops or 
showrooms. These 
plots and spaces, once developed, will have significantly higher market value No additional costs | All development costs, including roads, drainage, electricity, and water 
supply 
infrastructure, will be borne by state govt ‘Development will raise value 'For instance, if your land is worth Rs 1 crore per acre today, the developed property you receive in 
return will 
be worth Rs 3-4 crore. You can keep the property, rent it for consistent income, or sell it at your discretion Bhagwant Mann | Punjab CM

Source : Times of India