Concerns Raised Over Land Use Around Raikot Para Rajbari in Jalpaiguri

Jalpaiguri: Questions have been raised regarding the use and ownership status of land associated with the historic Rajbari area in Raikot Para, Jalpaiguri. The area is considered to have historical links with the erstwhile royal family and includes the Rajbari premises and two water bodies locally known as Rajbari Dighi.

According to information available locally, the government has undertaken maintenance and development work around some of the historical structures and water bodies in the area. A temple located in the vicinity is also considered an important local place of interest.

Residents have raised questions about the present status and use of land associated with the Rajbari area. They have pointed to the presence of different establishments and commercial activities, including a nursing home, a marble business and other buildings in the wider area.

However, the ownership and legal status of the individual plots on which these establishments have been developed could not be independently established from the information available. It is therefore necessary to verify the relevant land records, ownership documents, lease arrangements and permissions before drawing any conclusion regarding the use of Rajbari or government land.

Residents and concerned citizens have urged the district administration to conduct a detailed survey of the land associated with the historical Rajbari area and clarify which portions are government-owned, privately owned, leased or otherwise legally allotted.

They have also requested that appropriate action be taken if any unauthorised construction or commercial use of government or protected historical property is found during official verification.

Demand for preservation

Local residents have emphasised that the historical character of the Rajbari area should be protected and that any development or commercial activity should comply with applicable land-use, heritage and municipal regulations.

Note: The concerns regarding land ownership and alleged misuse are based on local observations and claims. The concerned government departments, land authorities and establishments should be given an opportunity to clarify the ownership and legal status of the properties mentioned in the report.