The issue of Local Government (LG) bodies using state lands and receiving an income has become a problem, while the Central Government has found out that its lands were being used by others, Internal and Home Affairs and Provincial Councils and Local Government Minister Vajira Abeywardena said in Parliament on Saturday.
He said that his ministry has referred this problem between the Government and the Local Government authorities with regard to the ownership and tenancy of state lands.
Minister Abeywardena said this issue has also resulted in the Central Government being prevented from implementing some of its development plans. “Now the issue has been referred to the Attorney General for his instructions and action would be taken thereafter to acquire those lands back. The Local Government Commissioner would also be informed of the instructions of the Attorney General through the Secretary to the Ministry of Internal and Home Affairs and Provincial Councils and Local Government.”
The Minister was responding to a question raised by Ratnapura District MP Hesha Withanage who pointed out that the development process was affected due to the obstructions by the Local Government bodies while the government allocates funds for them.
“The issue of land tenancy and ownership has been directed to the Attorney General for his observations. The Governors of the Provinces have no authority to block the development process of the government. The Governor should act in accordance with Section 154E of the Constitution. He cannot override those provisions,” Minister Abeywardena said.
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