ALMORA: As the Uttarakhand govt contemplates enactment of a rigorous law to protect agricultural land from acquisition by “outsiders”, Bollywood actor Manoj Bajpayee has become the second well-known personality — after UP politician Raja Bhaiya’s wife — to have his property in Almora under the scanner.
Almora DM Alok Kumar Pandey confirmed that investigations are underway into Bajpayee’s acquisition and several similar cases. “Our probe into cases of land law violations has intensified, and action has already been taken in several instances,” Pandey said.
In recent weeks, Uttarakhand has launched a drive to enforce stricter land-use laws, particularly in ecologically sensitive areas. The state govt is now assessing whether Bajpayee’s acquisition complies with local land regulations.
In 2021, the actor had bought approximately 15 nalis (one nali is equal to 2,160 square feet) of land in Kapkot village in Almora’s Lamgara block. The purchase was reportedly intended for the development of a meditation and yoga centre. However, local residents have raised concerns, noting that no construction or development has taken place on the land.
Kapkot gram pradhan Hema Devi said, “Bajpayee owns a significant portion of land in the area, but it remains undeveloped.” Advocate P C Tiwari voiced concerns about perceived inconsistencies in the enforcement of land laws, adding, “The govt should ensure land is used for its designated purpose.”
Earlier, a Mumbai-based industrialist’s land purchase in Almora’s Chitai area was declared “invalid” and seized after it was found to violate local land-use laws. The industrialist’s appeal to the Kumaon commissioner for relief was denied, highlighting the district’s commitment to uphold these regulations.
