Kochi: The Kerala High Court criticised the state government over land encroachments in Munnar.

The division bench of the High Court questioned the government about the steps taken against the officials who issued fake title deeds. It was also announced that the CBI would be made party in the case.

The court highlighted that a nexus of officials and the mafia was responsible for the fake title deeds, pointing to widespread corruption. However, the court observed that no charges under anti-corruption laws were brought forth in any of the cases. The division bench further rebuked the government for its failure to even file appeals in many land encroachment cases.

Additionally, the court inquired about the actions taken against former Tahsildar M.I. Raveendran in connection with the controversial Raveendran Pattayams in Munnar. Currently, the Crime Branch is investigating 42 cases of land encroachment, while 24 cases are under scrutiny by the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau in Munnar. The High Court expressed deep dissatisfaction with the handling of these cases.