Tamil Nadu, April 14, 2025 —
Residents of Kattukollai village in Vellore district, Tamil Nadu, were left stunned after receiving official notices claiming that their ancestral agricultural land falls under Waqf property. The villagers have been asked to pay rent to continue living and farming on the land they have occupied for generations.
Over 150 Families Affected
The notice affected around 150 families, most of whom rely on farming for their livelihood. The letters directed them to pay rent to the Waqf Board, treating them as tenants on the land they believed they owned.
Anger and Anxiety Spread Among Residents
Villagers protested, stating they had ownership documents and land records dating back decades. The sudden classification of their land as Waqf property has triggered panic over potential displacement and legal battles.
Call for State Government Action
Local leaders and affected residents are urging the Tamil Nadu government to investigate the matter and protect their rights. They have demanded immediate withdrawal of the notice and clarification on land records.
Legal Experts Raise Concerns
Legal experts have pointed out that ambiguities in Waqf Act provisions can sometimes lead to overlapping land claims, especially in rural and agricultural areas. A thorough land survey and public hearing has been requested to resolve the issue fairly.
Waqf Board Yet to Issue Official Statement
While local authorities have acknowledged the unrest, the Waqf Board has not released an official explanation. Meanwhile, tensions remain high as families fear losing homes and livelihoods.
