Illegal Control of Land Record Offices Exposed
Serious irregularities have surfaced in Jhelum’s land record offices (Patwarkhanas), where private individuals are allegedly running operations and exploiting citizens. According to official sources, several unregistered persons have taken control of these offices, presenting themselves as government patwaris (land record officers).
These individuals reportedly handle property transfers, inheritance documentation, and sale deed verifications — all while charging citizens hefty, unofficial fees. In many cases, they are said to be working with the tacit approval of the actual patwaris, who allegedly benefit from the scheme.
Losses to Citizens and the Public Treasury
This shadow system not only undermines public trust but also inflicts heavy financial losses on both citizens and the government. Sources claim that the provincial treasury is losing hundreds of thousands of rupees every month due to illegal collections that bypass official channels.
Residents say that they often pay large sums expecting legal processing of their land records, only to later discover that the documents issued are invalid. Such fraudulent activity has left many landowners entangled in prolonged legal disputes.
Court Orders Ignored
Despite a High Court order prohibiting private individuals from working in Patwarkhanas across Punjab, enforcement appears weak. The court had earlier directed the provincial administration to ensure that only certified government employees handle land records and property transactions. However, the lack of oversight and political interference has allowed these illegal practices to persist.
Legal experts note that failure to implement court directives undermines governance and contributes to corruption in local institutions.
Citizens Demand Government Action
Frustrated by repeated exploitation, citizens have urged the Punjab government to take immediate action. They demand strict monitoring of land offices, disciplinary proceedings against complicit officials, and the removal of unauthorized individuals from all Patwarkhanas.
Residents stress that restoring transparency in land administration is crucial to protecting public rights and preventing further losses to the state. Until firm action is taken, they fear the exploitation will continue unchecked.
