Mafias encroaching on government lands in Odisha’s Jatni; locals allege inaction

Allegations of large-scale encroachment by land mafias have surfaced in Jatni tehsil in Khordha district of Odisha, where government land is being illegally occupied and sold for profit, sources said on Friday.

Also Read: Over 500 Acres Of Govt Land Illegally Encroached In Bhubaneswar: Odisha CM

In several areas under the Jatni block, land brokers are accused of taking control of public property, including canals and grazing land, and converting them into plots for sale in the future.

One such case has been reported in Gadarathipur, where the protective embankments of the Daya West Canal — once built using soil and stone — are now allegedly under mafia control.

Locals claim this is not an isolated instance, with similar activities continuing for years across different parts of Jatni tehsil. Even grazing land meant for community use is allegedly being targeted.

Despite repeated complaints, residents allege that administrative and police action has been minimal. Questions are also being raised over how illegal constructions on government land are receiving electricity and water connections.

Responding to the issue, the Khordha district administration has assured that action will be taken after the land records are verified. However, locals remain sceptical, stating that while promises are made, concrete action is yet to be seen.

“We will look into the exact status of the land, which was an embankment. We will ascertain if any plotting of the land has been carried out, and whether it has been done legally or not,” Khordha district Collector, Amrit Ruturaj, said when contacted.

“Following verification, we will take appropriate steps in case any irregularities are found,” the District Collector added.