Rajasthan High Court Stays Implementation of New Revenue Villages, Next Hearing on February 14
Jodhpur, January 25 : The Rajasthan High Court has put a stay on the implementation of orders to declare three new revenue villages in Jodhpur district, citing violations of established guidelines. The court observed that as per regulations, the names of new revenue villages cannot be based on individuals, religions, castes, or sub-castes. However, in apparent disregard of these norms, the proposed villages were named after the ancestors of local political figures and party workers.
The petitioners, represented by Advocate Yashpal Khilery, secured this relief from a single bench of Justice Vineet Kumar Mathur. The court has sought responses from the state government and the District Collector of Jodhpur. The next hearing is scheduled for February 14, 2025.
Background of the Case
The petitioners, residents of Khirja Bhoja in Shergarh tehsil, challenged the notification issued on January 10, 2025, which proposed three new revenue villages carved out of their original village. The state government had laid out clear criteria under the Rajasthan Land Revenue Act for creating new revenue villages, including population density, availability of basic amenities, and proximity to essential services.
The petitioners alleged that these guidelines were blatantly ignored, and the new villages were proposed purely for political gains. The names of the villages were chosen to favor local political leaders and their families, a move seen as arbitrary and politically motivated.
Details of the Notification
Advocate Khilery argued that the creation of new revenue villages violated Section 16 of the Rajasthan Land Revenue Act, 1956, which prescribes due consideration for factors like population, grazing land, residential land, and essential infrastructure before such a decision. Despite written objections filed by the villagers, the proposals were approved due to undue political influence.
The court was informed that the original notification disregarded objections from the residents and failed to adhere to the stipulated criteria, such as population density and availability of grazing and residential land.
Courtโs Observations and Interim Order
After examining the facts and hearing the arguments, Justice Vineet Kumar Mathur noted significant irregularities in the process and stayed the implementation of the notification. The court also issued notices to the state government and district administration, demanding explanations for bypassing the established guidelines.
Political Interference Alleged
The petitioners alleged that the division of Khirja Bhoja into three new villages was influenced by recommendations from the local legislator, who aimed to favor specific individuals aligned with their political agenda. The move was described as an attempt to secure political goodwill rather than addressing developmental needs.
Legal Implications
The stay order underscores the necessity for transparency and adherence to legal frameworks in administrative decisions. It also emphasizes the judiciaryโs role in safeguarding the rights of citizens against arbitrary actions by administrative authorities.
Next Steps
The Rajasthan High Court has directed the state government to submit its response before the next hearing, slated for February 14, 2025. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for similar administrative actions across the state.
