TN govt issues draft for slum dwellers resettlement, rehabilitation

On Tuesday, the Tamil Nadu government issued the draft of its first resettlement and rehabilitation policy for slum dwellers.

The draft policy by the Tamil Nadu Urban Habitat Development Board (TNUHDB), formerly called as Tamil Nadu Slum Clearance Board, states that it applies to encroachment, eviction and displacement undertaken by the departments, statutory officials and local organisations under several acts and rules.

Observing that the policy would control over other directions for the people dismissed from objectionable poramboke land, it says the policy applies only to the encroacher or non-titleholders of the land, where displacement is offered for involuntary resettlement.

While the distance from the nearest towns or source of employment should be considered to recognise land for resettlement, the daily livelihood activities of the aimed beneficiaries should be kept in mind. Additionally, slum dwellers should be housed only in areas from where it would not take over half an hour to reach the nearest urban areas by bus or train.

The travelling time by bus or train must not be over half an hour to reach the nearest urban areas from where people are likely to be relocated.

The TNUHDB has sought suggestions from stakeholders on the draft policy. They should be presented within 15 days, which is, before 27th October 2021.

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