Bhopal’s Machhli family to submit documents in court:Next hearing on Oct 13; govt land occupiers may receive relief under Dharanadhikar regularization scheme

The “Machhli Family” case, involving allegations of sexual abuse and drug trafficking in Bhopal, is set for the next hearing in the Madhya Pradesh High Court on October 13. Ahead of this, district authorities will present documents to the court, which pertain to procedural compliance in the ongoing administrative actions. The High Court has directed the State Government, Bhopal Collector, DCP Crime, and officials from three banks to appear with records and clarify the legality of their actions. Background of the case Last week, the High Court heard the matter. During the proceedings, the state government submitted a response asserting that all actions were conducted within the bounds of law. Justice Vishal Mishra’s bench has sought a detailed reply from the state and reserved judgment. The petition was filed by Sajida B and nine other members of the Machhli family, claiming that government actions had damaged their property during the course of investigation. Administrative response and documentation Local officials have stated that all measures were undertaken in accordance with rules. They have prepared the necessary documents and will present them in court shortly. Sajida B and seven other residents of Anandpura had petitioned the High Court, stating that their names do not appear in any FIR and no criminal investigation was ongoing against them. Despite this, after an FIR was filed against Yaseen, their property was demolished, bank accounts frozen, and even their emails blocked. Demolition despite no charges The petitioners highlighted that they were not accused in any criminal case, yet their houses were demolished between August 21–25, without prior notice or due process. The court emphasized that demolishing houses, freezing bank accounts, or suspending weapons licenses without charges violates constitutional rights. Relief possible for encroachers on livestock department land Separately, over 6 acres of government land under the Animal Husbandry Department in Anantpura Kokta is occupied by private individuals. District administration may extend relief to those who have claimed possession. Following demarcation, hearings in Govindpura Tehsil Court are underway, and occupiers have submitted ownership documents. After hearings, the land will be regularized under the Dharanadhikar Scheme, allowing eligible occupants to obtain formal ownership. Collector Kaushalendra Vikram Singh confirmed that beneficiaries could gain rights under this scheme. About the Dharanadhikar scheme According to the Revenue Department, under the scheme, individuals occupying government land before December 31, 2014—for residential or commercial purposes—can acquire ownership by paying a set premium at the tehsil office. The documents and claims are verified before formal regularization. Recently, the cutoff date for eligibility was extended from December 31, 2014, to December 31, 2020, meaning more people could benefit. However, the new timeline is not yet fully finalized. Potential benefits for the Machhli family If implemented, the scheme could extend relief to the Machhli family and 40 other encroachers, including residents of Diamond City Colony, Courtyard Prime, and other private colonies. Details of encroachments The land and properties identified include: Authorities have documented these encroachments for regularization under the Dharanadhikar Scheme, aiming to resolve disputes legally and transparently.