The Capital Development Authority (CDA) and the Ministry of Defence are set to engage in high-level discussions today, aiming to resolve the illegal possession issue in Chauntra village amicably. The working committee meeting, scheduled to take place, will involve officials from the interior and defence ministries, the CDA chairman, members of estate and planning, the director land, police officials, and other stakeholders.
Chauntra village, located adjacent to sectors D-10 and E-10 earmarked for army installations, has become a focal point of discussion. The land in this village was allotted to the armed forces in 2004, yet legal and illegal constructions persist on the site. The upcoming meeting seeks to address these concerns and find a resolution acceptable to all parties involved.
Chauntra’s Complex History and Population Dynamics
The CDA asserts that Chauntra village was acquired in the 60s, but the absence of a Built-Up Property (BuP) award allowed for ongoing construction on the acquired land. Presently, the village houses thousands of residents, including both natives and outsiders, with at least 5,000 houses. Many affected individuals from other sectors, such as D-10, E-10, and E-11, have relocated to Chauntra over the years, resulting in extensive construction.
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Several months ago, the CDA conducted an operation in Chauntra, facing strong resistance from the local population. This underscores the complexity of the situation and the need for a comprehensive and mutually agreeable resolution.
CDA’s Stance on Land Acquisition and Compensation
The CDA states that rehabilitation benefits and compensations were paid to affected persons in place of the acquired land, with the land award for Mera Beri (Chauntra) announced in 1969. However, discrepancies arose, as the number of houses increased significantly over the years. The CDA acknowledges that there are genuine affected persons, constituting about 15 to 20 families, while the remaining 80 percent are non-locals or individuals who have acquired CDA-acquired land through various means.
CDA officials assure that a Built-Up Property (BuP) award will be announced soon to compensate all genuine affected persons before the area is cleared. The CDA emphasizes its commitment to providing encumbrance-free land to the armed forces and addressing the concerns of the local population.
Conclusion
The collaborative efforts between the CDA and the Ministry of Defence reflect a commitment to finding a fair and equitable resolution to the long-standing issue in Chauntra village. As the high-profile meeting unfolds, stakeholders anticipate a comprehensive plan that balances the interests of the armed forces, genuine affected persons, and the broader community residing in Chauntra.
