NAGPUR: Minister of State (In-charge) Shambhuraj Desai emphasized the need for a distinct policy to convert numerous plots leased before the establishment of the Nagpur Municipal Corporation into freehold titles. He mentioned that the Nagpur situation could affect similar plots in other cities across Maharashtra, and a decision will follow a departmental meeting.
The topic was raised by Nagpur MLAs Pravin Datke and Mohan Mate. Datke reported that Nagpur has about 9,000 plots across 22 town planning schemes, with 61,827 plots under the Nagpur Improvement Trust (NIT) proposed for freehold conversion, a proposal already sent to the State government. Nearly 10 lakh residents live on these plots, and freehold conversion would grant them ownership rights and access to essential civic services, he stated.
MLA Mohan Mate highlighted the misuse of civic plots and shops, claiming some are being utilized for unintended purposes. He also pointed out four settlements in central South Nagpur, which remain designated as scrub forest land despite existing for over 50 years. Residents are struggling to secure ownership rights since these areas have not been officially removed from scrub forest status, a situation affecting a large tribal community in those localities.
In response, Desai noted that rented or leased plots follow specific regulations. He mentioned that NIT submitted its freehold conversion proposal on December 12, which is currently under review as it was received just two days prior. “Decisions cannot be made for one city alone, as they may also impact others in the state,” he added.
He announced that a meeting would be arranged with the Urban Development Minister, relevant department officials, and the MLAs involved to discuss the possibility of creating a separate policy for freehold conversion in detail. Datke further pointed out that the proposal from NIT had been examined and forwarded by the Additional Chief Secretary, stressing the urgency of this matter.
