Nobody can own over 60 bighas of land: land minister

Land Minister Saifuzzaman Chowdhury today said an individual cannot own more than 60 bighas of agricultural land as per the Land Reform Act-2023.

"If inherited land exceeds 60 bighas, the heir can choose to retain 60 bighas of land, while the remaining land will become government-owned (Khas) and compensation will be provided according to government regulations," he made the comments at a press conference held at his ministry, an official release said.

The press conference was held after the three land-related bills were passed by the Jatiya Sangsad.

The land minister said if someone unlawfully acquires additional land in their name or through a pseudo name despite already owning 60 bighas, the excess land will be confiscated without government compensation.

He said the primary objective of the Land Crimes Prevention and Redress Act is to deter individuals from engaging in land-related crimes.

He said that this law has been made possible due to the dynamic leadership and courage of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

The three land bills recently passed by the parliament include the ‍‍`Land Crime Prevention and Redress Act, 2023,‍‍` the ‍‍`Land Reform Act, 2023,‍‍` and the ‍‍`Balumohal and Soil Management (Amendment) Act, 2023‍‍` (related to sand quarrying). These bills, once granted assent by the president, will become law and be published in the Gazette for public information as Acts of Parliament.

Saifuzzaman said "The process of enacting the law was complex and sensitive. Extensive consultations were held with stakeholders, both at the individual and organisational levels, during the drafting phase." Thanks to the dedication of all involved in the process, the law has been presented as a gift to the people of the country ahead of schedule, he said.