Govt. issues order lifting construction ban on patta land in Idukki

The State government has finally issued a formal order lifting the construction ban in Idukki district. According to an extraordinary gazette order issued on Sunday, land titles (pattas) issued before June 7, 2024, can now be used for various construction activities. These regulations are officially titled the Kerala Government Land Assignment (Permission for Use of Assigned Land for Other Purposes) Rules, 2026.

The order grants permission for the construction of residential, public, and commercial buildings, as well as aided educational institutions, on assigned lands.

“For residential buildings and commercial structures with a plinth area not exceeding 5,000 sq. ft., assignees must submit an application using Form A. For public buildings and aided educational institutions, Form B is required. All applications must be submitted to the authorised officer alongside an affidavit (Form E) and a processing fee of ₹100, remitted online to the government treasury,” says the order.

The order further specifies that buildings constructed by registered societies for cultural, recreational, political, or charitable purposes are exempt from fees. “For any commercial or industrial building constructions between 5,000 and 10,000 sq. ft., a fee of 1% of the land’s fair value will be charged. Constructions exceeding 10,000 sq. ft. will require a payment of 2% of the fair value. Land used for commercial or industrial purposes without a building, as well as constructions for any other purpose, will be subject to a fee of 5% of the property’s fair value,” says the order.

The lifting of the ban has been a long-standing demand of residents of the district. The Left Democratic Front (LDF) hopes to see significant political gains from the order ahead of the Assembly election.

Farmers’ groups question move

Meanwhile, various farmers’ groups have questioned the timing of the move, alleging that it is an “election gimmick” to secure votes. Rasak Chooravelil, Chairman of the Idukki Land Freedom Movement (ILFM), stated that residents have suffered immensely under the ban and noted that the order was issued on the very day election dates were declared.

“The present government cannot implement this order in time for the people to benefit,” Mr. Chooravelil said. “Additionally, under these rules, shop sites in areas like Kattappana still won’t receive title deeds—a long-term demand from local vendors.”