EPC puts off debate on controversial ‘land grab’ bill

[TamilNet, Tuesday, 14 February 2012, 01:37 GMT]
The Eastern Provincial Council (EPC) on Monday put off the debate on the proposed "Town and Country Planning Ordinance Amendment" till February 28 as majority members of the opposition raised objection to the amendment bill. This controversial amendment allows the central government to acquire any land for ‘development’ and ‘religious purposes’ without the consent of the provincial council.

The amendment has been placed before the provincial councils to obtain their approval before tabling it in parliament on a directive by the SL Supreme Court before determine its constitutionality.

The SL Supreme Court is of opinion that powers regarding land are devolved to provincial council. Hence the consent of the provincial council is needed before tabling any amendment to parliament regarding land matters.