Maharashtra launches probe into Premier Automobiles land transfer from 1960s

Maharashtra's Revenue Department has constituted a nine-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to look into the controversial land transfer to Premier Automobiles, addressing longstanding allegations of improper land use conversion. The investigation was initiated following complaints that pasture land designated for cattle-grazing was improperly allocated for industrial purposes during the 1960s and subsequently developed into high-value real estate holdings.

The SIT will be headed by the Konkan Divisional Commissioner, according to officials. The probe aims to establish whether the original land allotment adhered to regulatory guidelines and to trace the sequence of transactions that resulted in the transformation of the property into premium real estate over the past six decades.

The case highlights concerns about historical land allocations in Maharashtra and their compliance with stated developmental purposes. Officials have not disclosed a specific timeline for the investigation's completion, but the formation of a dedicated team indicates the seriousness with which the government is treating the allegations.

Premier Automobiles, which has operated as a significant player in India's automotive sector, has not immediately responded to requests for comment regarding the investigation. The probe is expected to examine original land documents, administrative records, and the sequence of ownership transfers to determine if regulations governing industrial land use were violated.