Chief Minister V. S. Achuthanandan said here on Wednesday that the Kannan Devan Hills (Taking over by resumption of certain lands) Ordinance, proposing the take over Munnar town and nearby areas for development of tourism facilities under a master plan, would be re-promulgated with amendments.
The Chief Minister had earlier withheld the draft Ordinance from being sent to the Governor for re-promulgation after Cabinet approval. The Ordinance proposed resumption of 1073.50 acres which was on lease to the Kanan Devan Hills Plantation Company by the government for development of the town.
However, legal hurdles arose over the government’s plans for use and assignment of the land, especially land on the banks of rivers and streams with buildings. Replying to questions from the media at his weekly Cabinet briefing, the Chief Minister said that necessary legal advice had been sought about the Ordinance. Accordingly, necessary changes would be made to the draft.
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Mr. Achuthanandan said that two offices would be set up for deciding pending cases of excess land under the Land Reforms Act in Wayanad district. The Cabinet had sanctioned 40 temporary posts for the offices.
On the issue of unauthorised lotteries, the Chief Minister said that the government was of the firm view that the Centre should bring legislation to check the irregularities. As to the Central government’s contention that the State had the necessary powers to take action against lottery distributors, the government would examine what powers the State had and take action accordingly, he added.
On the arrest of PDP leader Abdul Nasir Maudany, he said that it was only natural for people with warrants against them to surrender before the police.
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He said that the letter to the Dubai-based promoters of the Smart City Project, Kochi, warning them of possible termination of the Project was under preparation.