The Maharashtra Bhagdari and Narwadari Tenures Abolition Act
The Maharashtra Bhagdari and Narwadari Tenures Abolition Act
This Act regulates land ownership by abolishing the traditional Bhagdari and Narwadari land tenure systems in the Maharashtra region. It applies to landholders, local occupants, and residents who previously held rights under these old systems. This legislation matters because it modernizes land relations by converting individual landholders into direct occupants responsible to the state government, offering them secure rights while streamlining revenue collection. Furthermore, it asserts state ownership over unclaimed common lands, invalidates outdated customs that excluded female heirs from land succession, and establishes a system of compensation for individuals whose property rights were affected by these reforms.
- 1. Short title, extent and commencement.
- 2. Abolition of Bhagdari and Narwadari tenures.
- 3. Holder of land forming part of bhag, narwa or recognised sub-division and persons in lawful possession of majmun to be deemed to be occupants.
- 4. All other majmun land and other property to be property of the Crown.
- 5. Alienation so far made not to be invalid.
- 6. Custom of female heirs excluded by male heirs void.
- 7. Saving of recognised alienation.
- 8. Method of compensation for the extinguishment or modification of any rights in land.
- 9. Repeal.
- 10. Rules.
- 11. Interpretation.
PDF: pending for this language.