Section 20O: Application of the National Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy, 2007 to persons affected due to land acquisition
1[20-O. Application of the National Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy, 2007 to persons affected due to land acquisition.– The provisions of the National Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy, 2007 for project affected families, notified by the Government of India in the Ministry of Rural Development vide number F. 26011/4/2007- LRD dated the 31st October, 2007, shall apply in respect of acquisition of land by the Central Government under this Act.]
1. Ins. by Act 11 of 2008, s. 3 (w.e.f. 31-1-2008)
Simplified Explanation
Section 20O of the Railways Act, 1989 mandates the application of the National Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy, 2007 to persons affected by land acquisition for railway projects.
Key Provisions:
- Applicability of the National Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy, 2007: The policy, which was notified by the Government of India in 2007, outlines the measures for the rehabilitation and resettlement of project-affected families (PAFs) due to land acquisition.
- Government Notification: The policy is officially notified under F. 26011/4/2007-LRD, dated 31st October 2007 by the Ministry of Rural Development.
Implications:
- Ensuring Fair Treatment: The inclusion of the National Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy ensures that people whose land is acquired for railway projects are provided with fair compensation, alternative livelihood opportunities, and other forms of assistance to help them adjust to the displacement caused by the acquisition.
- Focus on Project-Affected Families: The policy is designed to provide comprehensive support, including financial compensation, housing, employment, and community development measures for families affected by large infrastructure projects.
- Legal Compliance: The section ensures that railway projects conform to the principles of fair compensation and rehabilitation, aligning with the larger framework for land acquisition and resettlement.
Conclusion:
Section 20O ensures that the National Rehabilitation and Resettlement Policy, 2007 applies to those affected by railway-related land acquisitions, thereby safeguarding the rights and welfare of displaced families, and promoting a more socially responsible approach to land acquisition.
