In a significant move, the Telangana Government has issued orders exempting Dindi, Sita Rama, Palamuru Ranga Reddy, B.R. Ambedkar Pranahitha and Kaleshwaram lift irrigation projects from the application of the provisions of Chapters II and III of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement (Telangana Amendment) Act, 2016.
Practically, it would enable the State Government to take up the social impact assessment (SIA) study and consent requirements, prescribed under the RFCTLA&RR Act, 2013, after acquisition of land for public purposes and not in advance as mandated in the 2013 Act.
The assessment of compensation to the land to be acquired would, however, remain as prescribed in the Act. Provisions of the Chapter II of the 2013 Act prescribe determination of social impact and public purpose, including preliminary investigation and appraisal of the SIA report by an expert group.
SIA study
The social impact assessment study is considered a major stumbling block in the implementation of major infrastructure projects for public purposes.
Similarly, Chapter III mandates consent of gram sabhas and affected land owners for acquisition of land.
