TLDR;
Alright folks, this session was all about the CNT Act, covering its history, key features, and objectives. We looked at the types of land in Jharkhand, the laws that came before the CNT Act, and the important amendments made over the years. Plus, there was a quick MCQ round to test your knowledge.
- Land types in Jharkhand
- History and background of CNT Act
- Key sections and amendments
- Objectives of the CNT Act
Introduction to CNT Act [1:00]
The session is about understanding the basics of the CNT Act, especially for exams like JPSC. It will cover the fundamental concepts and also include some MCQs based on what is taught in the class. There's also some information about paid classes available, like the JPSC Foundation Batch, reasoning classes, general science, computer classes, and Jharkhand GS classes. Test series for JPSC prelims are also available on the Jigyasa Learning App.
Types of Land in Chotanagpur [4:59]
In Jharkhand, land is mainly divided into two types: high land (taad) and low land (don). However, there are specific types related to tribal communities. Khutkatti land belongs to the Munda tribe, which they created by clearing forests for agriculture. Bhuihari land is owned by the Oraon tribe. Korkar land is for the Sadan community, who are non-tribal natives of Jharkhand. Rajhas land belongs to kings, and Majhas land belongs to zamindars.
Introduction of Land Related Laws [11:44]
In 1765, the Chotanagpur area came under British rule through the Treaty of Allahabad. The British introduced the Malguzari system, a type of tax system. The local kings didn't like this because they had never paid taxes before. This led to tribal revolts, starting with the Dhal Revolt in 1767. The British then gave district collectors the power to appoint and remove zamindars. In 1789, the Bengal Regulation was introduced to calm the tribal rebellions, and it was changed over time.
Permanent Settlement Regulation Act and Other Developments [18:53]
In 1793, during Lord Cornwallis' time, the Permanent Settlement Regulation Act was brought in, specifically for the hilly areas of Ramgarh. In 1771, Chotanagpur came under British rule, followed by Palamu in 1777 and Ramgarh in 1772. In 1773, these areas were merged to form the Ramgarh district, headed by Captain Jacob Camac. In 1824, the rights of ryots (farmers) were defined and protected for the first time.
Wilkins Rule and Non-Regulation State [21:57]
Various tribal revolts made the British realize they needed to address tribal issues to maintain peace. As a result of the Kol Revolt (1831-32), Captain Wilkins created new rules for the Kolhan area in 1837, known as the Wilkins Rule. In 1854, Chotanagpur was placed under a commissioner as a non-regulation state of Bengal. The government made several reforms to address land-related problems of the tribes.
Sardari Movement and Bhuihari Survey [24:43]
From 1858 to 1895, the Sardari Movement took place. In 1862, under Babu Rakhal Das Haldar, a Bhuihari Survey was started to mark the land of local landlords, lasting until 1869. This was the first major step by the government to protect tribal lands. In 1869, the Chotanagpur Tenures Act was introduced, but it only covered Bhuihari land.
Chotanagpur Tenures Act and Subsequent Surveys [27:52]
The Chotanagpur Tenures Act came into effect on April 1, 1869. It was related only to Bhuihari land, which caused dissatisfaction among other tribal groups. In 1897, the right to hear rent-related disputes was moved from the District Collector to civil courts. Several surveys were conducted, including the Tubar Survey, Kavar Survey, and Cadastral Survey, all related to land.
Recommendation of Forbes and Preparation for CNT Act [30:58]
The British government, on the recommendation of Commissioner Forbes, assigned Lister and John Reid to measure land in Ranchi district in 1902. This work lasted from 1902 to 1910, after which a Khatian or record of rights related to Munda tribal land was prepared. This was triggered by the Munda Ulgulan. The Mundari Khutkatti Dari system was introduced, leading to the creation of the CNT Act.
Key Land Reform Acts [34:27]
Important land reform acts include the Chotanagpur Tenures Act of 1869, the Chotanagpur Landlord and Tenant Procedure Act of 1879, the Bengal Tenancy Act of 1885, the Chotanagpur Tenancy Act of 1908, and the Santhal Pargana Tenancy Act of 1949.
Background of CNT Act 1908 [34:53]
The CNT Act of 1908 was passed under the Governor-General Lord Minto. Father John Bapstist Hoffmann is known as the architect of the CNT Act, assisted by Mr. Lister. The draft was completed in 1903, costing ₹16 lakh. The act was first enacted on November 11, 1908, and published in the Calcutta Gazette.
CNT Act as Tribal Charter [38:25]
The CNT Act is called the Tribal Charter of Rights or Magna Carta of Tribes because it protects the ancestral land rights of the tribal communities.
Structure and Application of CNT Act [39:03]
The CNT Act has 19 chapters, 271 sections, and 2 schedules. It was adopted in Jharkhand on November 14, 2000, and has been in force since November 15, 2000. The act is applicable in 18 districts under four divisions: Palamu, North Chotanagpur, South Chotanagpur, and Kolhan. It has been amended 26 times so far.
Amendments and Objectives of CNT Act [43:00]
The most important amendment was in 1903, which substituted Section 46, prohibiting the transfer of tribal land to non-tribals. The objectives of the CNT Act are to end land disputes in Chotanagpur, control tribal revolts, protect the land rights of tribal communities, and provide land ownership rights to the tribes.
Provisions of CNT Act [45:56]
The CNT Act includes 19 chapters covering various aspects such as preliminary information, classes of tenants, general provisions for occupancy, Khutkatti rights, non-occupancy rights, leasing and transfer of holdings, rent provisions, customs and contracts, determination of rights, record keeping, and judicial processes.
Revision and MCQs [50:19]
The session ends with a revision and MCQ round to reinforce the concepts learned. The questions cover topics such as the first amendment year, total number of sections, objectives of the act, and key figures involved in drafting the CNT Act.
