Siliguri, 09th June: A controversy has erupted in the Shantinagar Amtala area near Pragatishil Sangha Club premises over a 10-katha plot of land, which local residents claim has had no identifiable owner for nearly 27 years.
According to locals, the land remained unused and effectively abandoned for decades. However, residents now allege that land brokers have recently shown interest in the property, while members of a local club are attempting to purchase it at a low price and later sell it at a higher value, triggering tension in the area.
Following rising unrest, Dabgram II Anchal administration installed a temporary government notice board on the land. However, locals claim that despite the intervention, alleged broker activity around the plot continues.
Residents have stated that they have been guarding the land for years and will not allow any illegal sale or occupation. They have demanded that the land be used for public welfare purposes such as a temple or social development activities.
Meanwhile, Amtala Pragati Sangha club secretary Kishore Das claimed that efforts are underway to purchase the land from the rightful owner at government rates and hand it over to a kirtan committee, adding that valid ownership documents are available.
On the other hand, Dabgram II Anchal Pradhan Mitali Malakar said that no confirmed owner had been traced so far, and the administration has planned to use the land for developmental purposes, including the construction of a temple.
She added that if the rightful owner comes forward with valid documents, the land will be handed over accordingly.