The Land Acquisition Rehabilitation and Resettlement Authority (RFCTLARRA) is a quasi-judicial body established under the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013. This authority plays a crucial role in overseeing and adjudicating disputes related to compensation, rehabilitation, and resettlement arising from land acquisition for various projects. Here are the key aspects of the constitution, powers, and functions of RFCTLARRA:
1. Constitution of LARRA:
- The Land Acquisition Rehabilitation and Resettlement Authority is typically constituted at both the national and state levels. The national-level authority is known as the National Land Acquisition Rehabilitation and Resettlement Authority (NLARRA), while state-level bodies have similar nomenclature with reference to the respective states.
2. Powers of LARRA:
- Quasi-judicial Authority: RFCTLARRA functions as a quasi-judicial body, meaning it has the authority to adjudicate disputes and make decisions in matters related to compensation, rehabilitation, and resettlement arising from land acquisition.
- Adjudication of Disputes: RFCTLARRA has the power to hear and decide on disputes regarding the determination of compensation, rehabilitation, and resettlement packages. This includes disputes raised by landowners, affected families, or any other interested parties.
- Review of Compensation Awards: RFCTLARRA can review compensation awards made by the Collector (the designated land acquisition officer) to ensure that they adhere to the provisions of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013, and are just and fair.
- Authority to Call for Records: RFCTLARRA has the authority to call for records and relevant documents from the Collector or any other relevant authority involved in the land acquisition process. This power aids in the thorough examination of cases brought before the authority.
- Power to Award Additional Compensation: If RFCTLARRA finds that the compensation awarded by the Collector is inadequate, it has the power to award additional compensation to the affected parties.
3. Functions of LARRA:
- Adjudication of Disputes: The primary function of LARRA is to adjudicate disputes related to compensation, rehabilitation, and resettlement arising from land acquisition. This ensures a fair and impartial resolution of conflicts between the acquiring authority and affected parties.
- Review of Compensation Awards: RFCTLARRA reviews compensation awards made by the Collector to ensure that they are in accordance with the legal provisions and principles of just compensation.
- Ensuring Compliance with Rehabilitation and Resettlement Provisions: RFCTLARRA monitors and ensures compliance with the provisions of rehabilitation and resettlement, promoting the well-being and livelihoods of affected families.
- Public Hearings: RFCTLARRA may conduct public hearings to gather input and concerns from affected parties, ensuring that their voices are heard in the decision-making process.
- Transparent Decision-Making: By functioning as a quasi-judicial body, RFCTLARRA contributes to transparent and accountable decision-making in the land acquisition process.
In summary, the Land Acquisition Rehabilitation and Resettlement Authority (RFCTLARRA) serves as a vital institution in the land acquisition framework, ensuring that compensation, rehabilitation, and resettlement processes are carried out fairly and in accordance with the provisions of the Land Acquisition Act, 2013. Its quasi-judicial nature empowers it to address disputes and contribute to the just and equitable resolution of issues arising from land acquisition activities.
