Odisha Govt Reclaims 63 Acres of Land Worth over Rs 800 Crore in Cuttack after 43-Year Legal Battle

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Cuttack: Bringing an end to a 43-year-long legal battle, the Odisha government has reclaimed approximately 63 acres of valuable land worth over Rs 800 crore in the Jagatpur area of Cuttack district.

The landmark ruling was delivered by Board of Revenue Member Satyabrata Sahu, who rejected private ownership claims over the disputed property and directed that the land remain recorded in the government’s name.

The land, located in Chera Mouza near Jagatpur under Tangi-Choudwar Tehsil, had been embroiled in a legal dispute since 1983.

The petitioners had claimed ownership based on a lease executed in 1945, along with old land records and rent receipts. However, the Revenue Board observed that the former zamindar who granted the lease had only limited rights over the property and lacked the authority to transfer permanent ownership.

The ruling further clarified that payment of land revenue or possession of rent receipts does not automatically establish legal ownership.

According to the findings, the land had vested with the state government under the Odisha Estates Abolition Act in 1954.

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Following the verdict, the Cuttack district administration took possession of the property and installed government ownership signboards to prevent encroachment.

A field inspection revealed that portions of the land are being used as playgrounds, educational institutions, temples and roads.

Local residents welcomed the decision and urged the government to develop the land for educational, recreational and other public welfare purposes.

Authorities have warned that any future encroachment on the government land will invite legal action.

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