High-Level Committee to Investigate Pune Land Deal Controversy
The Maharashtra government has taken decisive action by establishing a five-member high-level inquiry committee to investigate alleged irregularities in land transactions involving Survey No. 88 in Mundhwa, Pune. This significant move comes in response to recent media reports that exposed potential violations in the purchase and sale of land documents.
Committee Formation and Leadership
Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule officially issued the order constituting the committee on Friday, following direct directives from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The panel will operate under the chairmanship of Vikas Kharge, who serves as the Additional Chief Secretary for Revenue, Stamps and Registration.
The committee composition includes several key officials: the Pune Divisional Commissioner, Commissioner of Land Records and Director of Land Records, Inspector General of Registration and Controller of Stamps, and the Pune District Collector. A Joint Secretary will provide supporting capacity to the five core members.
Mandate and Timeline
The high-level committee has received clear instructions to complete its investigation within a strict one-month timeframe. The panel will begin its work immediately to ensure a timely resolution to the matter.
Revenue Minister Bawankule emphasized the government's commitment to transparency, stating: "The government is committed to upholding transparency and accountability in land administration. This high-level committee will ensure a time-bound, thorough probe, and strict action will be taken against any wrongdoing."
Scope of Investigation
The committee's terms of reference are comprehensive and include multiple critical objectives:
- Conducting a detailed and impartial inquiry to determine whether irregularities occurred in the land transactions
- Identifying responsible individuals and officials if irregularities are established
- Recommending appropriate disciplinary and legal action against those found responsible
- Proposing corrective measures to restore the land to its original status if required
- Developing preventive mechanisms to ensure such incidents don't recur in the future
The formation of this committee demonstrates the Maharashtra government's proactive approach to addressing potential corruption in land administration. The one-month deadline indicates the urgency with which authorities are treating this matter, particularly given the valuable urban land involved in the disputed transactions.
This investigation marks another significant step in the state government's ongoing efforts to maintain integrity in land management systems and protect public resources from unauthorized exploitation.
