Tamil Nadu Land Consolidation (for Special Projects) Act, 2023
PSC Notes
Purpose and Scope: The Act aims to simplify land consolidation for special projects such as infrastructure, industrial, agricultural, and commercial developments requiring over 100 hectares of land. However, it includes provisions to acquire land even if it contains water bodies, raising environmental and community concerns.
Controversial Provisions: The Act has sparked criticism from environmentalists and farmers, who fear it may lead to further depletion of water bodies and disregard for community rights. The possibility of private entities obtaining land with water bodies in exchange for other lands is particularly contentious.
Lack of Public Oversight: The decision to designate a project as “special” is solely with the government, limiting public input. Public hearings are only held after project approval, diminishing community influence over projects impacting local resources.
Role of the Expert Committee: An expert committee is designated to oversee proposals, conduct public hearings, and finalize land consolidation schemes. However, concerns arise regarding its independence, as it is largely government-appointed.
Potential Environmental Impact: Critics argue that the Act lacks provisions for preserving essential hydrological pathways, which are critical for the health of water bodies. There is also no clear role for the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, despite potential pollution risks.
Concerns over Community Livelihoods: The Act offers compensation and alternative lands to landowners but fails to provide adequate safeguards for those whose livelihoods depend on these ecosystems, such as farmers and fishing communities.
Environmental Risks: Given recent incidents of encroachment on water body lands, environmental advocates argue for more robust protection of these areas to prevent increased flood risks and ecological degradation.