Vidhi Codex

The Kerala Escheats and Forfeitures Act, 1964

The Kerala Escheats and Forfeitures Act, 1964

General196427 sections4 chapters

The Kerala Escheats and Forfeitures Act of 1964 regulates how the state government takes ownership of property that is abandoned, unclaimed in public places, or left by individuals who die without heirs. Applying to all residents and property within Kerala, the law details the official process for investigating claims, managing dispute appeals, and selling these properties via public auction. This legislation matters because it prevents property from falling into decay or illegal possession, ensures public assets are safely managed, and protects citizens by giving legal claimants clear channels to recover their property before the state permanently claims it.

Start reading →Read full ActSections

Chapter I Preliminary →

  1. 1Short title, extent and commencement.
  2. 2Definitions.

Chapter II Escheats →

  1. 3Escheats.
  2. 4Preliminary enquiry.
  3. 5Publication in the Gazette.
  4. 6Investigation and decision.
  5. 7Appeal.
  6. 8Effect of decision.
  7. 9Disposal of escheats.
  8. 10Taking possession by Collector.
  9. 11Saving of rights to sue.
  10. 11AAbandoned property.
  11. 11BPreliminary inquiry.
  12. 11CPublication of notice.
  13. 11DInvestigation and decision.
  14. 11EAppeal.
  15. 11FTaking possession by Collector.
  16. 11GSaving of right to sue.
  17. 11HDisposal of property.

Chapter III Unclaimed Property →

  1. 12Police to take charge of unclaimed properties found in public places.
  2. 13Publication in the Gazette.
  3. 14Forfeiture of articles.
  4. 15Uncontested claim.
  5. 16Contested claim.

Chapter IV Miscellaneous →

  1. 17Power of Government to make rules.
  2. 18Repeal.

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