Jaisalmer, May 24, 2023 – In a significant move to address the concerns of hundreds of Hindu migrants from Pakistan, Jaisalmer District Collector Tina Dabi announced the allotment of over 40 bigha of land for their rehabilitation. The decision comes as a respite for the migrants who had staged protests following the demolition of their houses during an anti-encroachment drive in the Amarsagar area.
The land, situated near Moolsagar and approximately 5 kilometers from the district headquarters, will be reserved for individuals still classified as Pakistani migrants. However, allocation of the land will be contingent upon the migrants obtaining Indian citizenship. District Collector Tina Dabi made this announcement on Wednesday, which helped thaw out the migrant protests that had erupted following the demolition of their makeshift houses.
Addressing the reporters, Tina Dabi explained the procedure for land allocation. The district administration will compile a list of all Pakistani oustees residing in the area, and their accounts at the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) will be verified. Priority for land allotment will be given to those migrants who have acquired Indian citizenship, while others will be required to follow the application process.
The decision to allot land to the displaced families was made by a committee specifically formed to identify a suitable location for rehabilitation and address related concerns. This committee will also monitor the further procedures involved in the land allotment process.
To provide temporary accommodation for the Hindu migrants, the district administration has arranged for their stay at a government-run shelter house called ‘Ren Basera.’ This accommodation will be equipped with adequate water and electricity supply, which has been facilitated by the neighboring Bhil Basti—a previously rehabilitated area housing Pakistani migrants.
The announcement by Jaisalmer District Collector Tina Dabi reflects the administration’s commitment to addressing the needs of displaced Hindu migrants from Pakistan. By providing them with land for rehabilitation, the authorities aim to ensure a secure and stable future for these families. The process of land allotment will be carried out in a systematic and transparent manner, prioritizing those who have obtained Indian citizenship.
This step taken by the Jaisalmer district administration not only showcases their empathetic approach but also serves as a model for inclusive and humanitarian governance. It is hoped that this initiative will foster a sense of belonging and security among the displaced migrants, enabling them to rebuild their lives and contribute to the development of their new homeland.
