Dharmasala tehsil administration initiated land measurement at the controversial Panturi farmhouse inJajpur districtlinked to former BJD MLA Pranab Balabantaray on Tuesday.
Officials began the survey at Panturi under Madhupurgarh panchayat following allegations that government land had been encroached upon for constructing the farmhouse. Three Amins and three Revenue Inspectors have been deployed for the measurement process.
Earlier, the tehsil authorities had issued a notice to the former legislator asking him to present his side after complaints surfaced regarding an allegedly illegal occupation of public land.
Interestingly, days after the notice was served, parts of the farmhouse structure—including the roof of a building—were reportedly dismantled overnight. Some goats housed on the premises were also found missing, triggering speculation in the district.
The farmhouse is said to be located under Khata No. 336, Plot No. 1118, covering 31.60 acres classified as hill land. However, allegations claim that additional government land beyond the permitted area was encroached upon for boundary construction.
Sudden removal of the roof has intensified local discussions, raising questions about why such action was taken if the structure stood on legally owned land.
“We get to hear that former BJD MLA from Dharmasala, Pranab Balabantaray, has allegedly encroached upon a significant amount of land in Zone No.-12. Numerous complaints have been lodged by local residents. As a result, the administration is currently conducting land measurements,” resident of Panturi, Sudhansu Mohanty, said.
“Much of this land was originally forest land, and it’s being alleged that it was purchased from the former king of Dharmasala. The encroachment has also had a severe negative impact on the environment,” Sudhansu Mohanty stated.
“Land measurements are being carried out today by the local administration. I suspect there has been some illegal encroachment; otherwise, this wouldn't be taking place. If, at all, any illegalities are found, we urge the Odisha government to conduct a thorough investigation and reclaim this land,” the Panturi resident added.
