What does Section 37 of PERA Act 2024 prohibit?

The PERA Act 2024 includes specific provisions to protect public resources and ensure lawful use of State property. Section 37 explicitly prohibits encroachment on State property, which is defined as unauthorized occupation, construction, or use of government-owned land or facilities.

Under this section, any person or entity attempting to illegally occupy, build upon, or utilize State land without proper authorization is in violation of the law. Such encroachments not only deprive the public of its rightful resources but also create opportunities for environmental and administrative mismanagement.

The law empowers Enforcement Officers (EOs) and Sub Divisional Enforcement Officers (SDEOs) to act against encroachments immediately. They can:

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  Serve notices to the encroacher,

  
  


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  Remove unauthorized structures,

  
  


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  Confiscate materials used for encroachment,

  
  


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  Impose fines, and

  
  


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  Recover enforcement costs if necessary.

  
  

Furthermore, Hearing Officers (HOs) may review enforcement actions to ensure due process, issue Absolute Orders, and finalize penalties against persistent violators. If enforcement costs are incurred, they can be recovered as arrears of land revenue, ensuring that the State does not bear unnecessary financial burden.

By prohibiting encroachments, Section 37 safeguards public land, promotes orderly urban and rural planning, and supports compliance with environmental and administrative regulations. The provision also acts as a deterrent against illegal occupation, helping maintain the integrity of State-owned resources.

In summary, under Section 37 of the PERA Act 2024, any form of encroachment on State property is strictly prohibited, and enforcement authorities are empowered to take immediate action to protect public assets and uphold the law.