Punjab government withdraws land pooling policy

The Punjab government has withdrawn its land pooling policy dated May 14, 2025, along with all amendments, amid political opposition and a court order halting its implementation. The policy sought to acquire large tracts of agricultural land for development without conducting Social Impact Assessment or Environmental Impact Assessment studies, drawing strong criticism.

In a press statement, the Principal Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development said all actions taken under the policy are cancelled with immediate effect. This includes withdrawal of Letters of Intent, registration processes, and any other steps carried out under the framework.

The decision followed a stay by the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which on August 7 paused the policy’s operation after a petition by Advocate Gurdeep Singh Gill. The court noted the land in question was among the most fertile in Punjab and said the policy could affect the social environment. The petition argued that the state had bypassed legal requirements for environmental and social impact studies, as well as consultations with Gram Panchayats and Gram Sabhas.

AAP spokesperson Baltej Pannu said the policy was withdrawn because it did not receive public support, adding it was intended for the benefit of farmers.