Congress Slams Rajasthan's 'Disturbed Areas' Property Bill as Polarization Attempt
Congress state president Govind Singh Dotasra launched a sharp critique of the Rajasthan Prohibition of Transfer of Immovable Property and Property for Protection of Tenants from Eviction from Premises in Disturbed Areas Bill, 2026, during a heated assembly debate on Friday. Dotasra accused the government of attempting to polarize voters and adopt a "Gujarat model" through this legislation, which he argued interferes with constitutional rights.
Vow to Repeal the Law if Congress Returns to Power
Speaking during the discussion, Dotasra declared that the Congress party would repeal the law if it regains power in the state in the 2028 elections. "The government is trying to create religious polarisation and bring such bills to consolidate majority votes. In 2028, when the Congress forms the government, we will scrap this bill," he asserted. This statement underscores the party's strong opposition to what it views as a politically motivated move.
Allegations of Constitutional Interference and Corruption
Dotasra further alleged that the legislation represents a direct interference in citizens' constitutional rights, particularly the right to buy and sell property. "The right to purchase and sell property comes from the Constitution. The government trying to control this is nothing but a conspiracy to disturb peaceful areas and promote corruption," he claimed. He raised critical questions about the bill's implementation, asking how the government would determine which areas are declared "disturbed" and which communities might be targeted.
"Which areas will be called disturbed? Which community do you want to identify through this bill? The intent behind the law must be clearly stated, but it was not done," Dotasra emphasized, highlighting concerns over transparency and potential misuse.
Concerns Over Section 5 and Corruption Risks
Referring to provisions in Section 5 of the bill, Dotasra argued that the rules could open doors to corruption. He explained that property transfers in notified areas would require approval from a designated authority, a process he believes could be exploited. Additionally, he contended that such provisions might make it difficult for citizens to challenge decisions, thereby undermining accountability and fairness in property transactions.
Congress MLA Rafeek Khan Joins Opposition
Congress MLA Rafeek Khan also opposed the bill during the debate, echoing concerns about potential misuse for political reasons. Khan alleged that areas where the Congress party receives more votes could be unfairly labeled as "disturbed areas." "The only parameter to declare a disturbed area will be places where the Congress gets more votes," he claimed, suggesting a partisan agenda behind the legislation.
Khan further argued that the bill is detrimental to communal harmony and could complicate property sales for residents. "This bill is not good for communal harmony and its provisions will make it difficult for people to sell property," he stated. He also rejected the notion that migration from certain neighborhoods is primarily due to communal tensions, pointing out that people move for various reasons, such as family growth or lifestyle changes.
"People move for many reasons. When families grow, they sell property and move elsewhere. Linking migration to other factors is not correct," Khan added, challenging the government's rationale for the bill.
The debate highlights growing tensions over the proposed property legislation, with the Congress party positioning it as a tool for polarization and constitutional overreach, while vowing to overturn it in future elections.
