The Hindu : National : West Bengal land acquisition Bill deferred

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Wednesday, Jul 25, 2007
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West Bengal land acquisition Bill deferred

Special Correspondent

KOLKATA: The tabling in the West Bengal Assembly of a bill, considered critical for the future of industrialisation, has been deferred.

It seeks to amend the existing legislation on land availability to facilitate acquisition for purposes of industry, commerce and infrastructure development.

The delay comes at a time when the Industries and Commerce Department expects the flow of investment to touch the Rs. 90,000-crore mark soon.

Nearly eight months after the West Bengal Land Reforms [Amendment] Bill 2006 was first referred to an Assembly select committee, it was unanimously decided on Tuesday to extend the term of the panel till the next session of the House, following differences among the members over certain details.

Members on the committee, representing different parties, have not been able to reach consensus on the Bill. The differences are not confined to the Opposition and exist among some constituents of the ruling Left Front.

According to the proposed amendments, land acquired would have to be used for purposes of industry, commerce and infrastructure within three years, else the government could reclaim it.

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