(1.) The order passed by the Tahsildar, Egmore-Nungambakkam Taluk, rejecting the claim of the writ petitioner to grant patta in respect of the land, which is classified as "Circar Poramboke" is under challenge in the present writ petition.
(2.) The learned counsel for the writ petitioners state that the writ petitioners are in possession and enjoyment of the property for long years and by virtue of their occupation for a considerable length of time, they are eligible for grant of patta. When an application is made, the 2nd respondent / The Tahsildar rejected the application on the ground that the land under the possession and occupation of the writ petitioners are classified as "Circar Poramboke" and therefore, no patta can be issued as per the Government Policy. Challenging the said order, the present writ petition has been filed.
(3.) The petitioners, who are also present before this Court, expressed their concern about their livelihood. This Court is of an opinion that undoubtedly the grievances of the citizen are to be addressed and redressed by the "State" in an appropriate manner. The "State" is a welfare State, is bound to implement certain schemes for the welfare of the poor landless people and the Government is periodically implementing such schemes by constructing houses for the poor landless people. Allotments are made by considering the eligibility criteria and by following the terms and conditions stipulated in the policy. The writ petitioners are also entitled to submit application for allotment of free house or site as per the Government schemes, if they are otherwise eligible in accordance with the terms and conditions of the scheme. However, this Court cannot encourage the encroachments made by the citizen in respect of the public land.