In a significant move to expedite long-pending land acquisition disputes related to National Highway projects, the Central government has appointed 57 new arbitrators in Maharashtra. This decision aims to resolve over 28,000 pending claims from project-affected individuals who have been awaiting compensation for several years. Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, following Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’s directives, initiated this step to protect farmers’ interests.
Recognizing the necessity for transparency and the rights of affected individuals, Minister Bawankule emphasized the appointment of independent arbitrators to ensure prompt hearings. These 57 experienced officers from the Additional Commissioner and Additional Collector cadres will serve as arbitrators across various divisions in Maharashtra. District Collectors have been instructed to allocate pending cases to these arbitrators, ensuring administrative consistency by assigning all claims related to a single award to the same officer.
To maintain efficiency, Divisional Commissioners will conduct monthly reviews of the arbitrators’ progress. The NHAI will provide necessary funding for manpower and office expenses to facilitate a smooth judicial process. Minister Bawankule highlighted that the appointment of these arbitrators will lead to the resolution of 28,000 pending cases within a specific timeframe, ensuring timely compensation for project-affected persons and expediting the state’s development.
