A fake registry scandal to the tune of crores of rupees has exposed how hundreds of farmers, who received compensation for land acquired for the Sardar Sarovar project, colluded with Government officials and struck land deals only on paper.

More than 100 FIRs have been lodged with various police stations in Khargone, Dhar and Badwani districts after a preliminary inquiry proved that fake land deals were registered to get the second installment of compensation under the Special Rehabilitation Package (SRP).

The project-affected farmers had been paid the first installment and they could receive the remainder only after registering land deals. Eager to get the remaining money, farmers either on their own or with the help of a cartel of brokers and Government officials, submitted fake registration papers.

Now, the Government has ordered a high-level inquiry into the scandal that could not have thrived without the active involvement of officials. A special investigation team has been set up for the purpose.

The Government crackdown has sent ripples in the Narmada valley with brokers and several beneficiaries fleeing to avoid arrest. Two officials have been suspended and more suspensions are likely with the SIT expanding the scope of probe.

The SRP was mooted because the Government felt it did not have enough land. The package allowed farmers to buy land of their choice anywhere in the state from the first installment they received. The idea behind making the second installment conditional was to ensure that the farmer actually purchased land.

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