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Addressing Inadequate Compensation for Land Acquisition in Bangladesh

Question

What actions can we take if 3 percent of our land has been acquired for a road widening project, and the compensation offered is significantly lower than the market value?

Answer

When land is acquired for public projects in Bangladesh, landowners have rights regarding compensation. Here’s how you can address the situation when the compensation offered is insufficient:

  • Understand the Acquisition Process:
    • The government must follow legal procedures when acquiring land, including notifying landowners and determining compensation based on the current market value.
  • Assess Your Compensation Rights:
    • The compensation offered (10,000 Taka per percent) is far below the market value (2.5 lakhs per percent). Landowners are entitled to fair compensation based on the market rate.
  • Gather Evidence:
    • Document the current market value of your land and gather evidence to support your claim, such as:
      • Recent sale deeds of comparable lands.
      • Valuation reports from certified valuers.
      • Testimonies from local real estate agents.
  • File an Objection:
    • Submit a formal objection to the land acquisition authority. In your application, include:
      • Details of the acquisition.
      • A statement of your disagreement with the compensation amount.
      • Supporting evidence of the land’s market value.
  • Seek Legal Advice:
    • Consult with a lawyer who specializes in land acquisition issues. They can guide you on the appropriate legal actions, including:
      • Filing a writ petition in the High Court to challenge the compensation.
      • Pursuing a case for fair compensation under the Land Acquisition Act.
  • Request for Revaluation:
    • In your application, explicitly request the acquisition authority to re-evaluate the compensation amount based on the current market value.
  • Preventing Acquisition:
    • Preventing the acquisition is challenging unless there are legal grounds, such as:
      • Failure to follow proper legal procedures.
      • Lack of public interest justifying the acquisition.
      • Issues with the legitimacy of the project.
  • Engage with Local Representatives:
    • Engage local government representatives or community leaders to advocate for your rights. They may provide support or escalate the issue.
  • Consider Collective Action:
    • If multiple landowners are affected, consider collective action. Forming a group can strengthen your case and provide leverage in negotiations with authorities.