Muslim organisations and civil rights groups have raised strong objections after the Rajasthan cabinet cleared a draft law regulating property transactions in areas declared “disturbed”. Groups fear the proposed legislation will restrict land rights of Muslims and Adivasis and expand state control over private property.
The draft law, approved on Jan. 21, is titled the Rajasthan Prevention of Transfer of Immovable Property in Disturbed Areas and Protection of Tenants from Eviction Bill, 2026. To be introduced during the upcoming budget session,the Bill allows the state to declare any locality a disturbed area and require prior permission for buying or selling property there.
The government says the law aims to protect residents during riots or unrest, when people face pressure to sell homes at low prices. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Jogaram Patel said fast growth of one community creates demographic imbalance and affects social harmony.
Property transfers without government approval will stand invalid. Violations will be non-bailable offences,with 3-5 years in prison and fines.
Muslim leaders argue the language remains vague and grants sweeping powers to officials. A senior Jaipur based community leader said the law risks freezing property sales in Muslim neighbourhoods and blocking access to housing elsewhere. He said property ownership links directly to economic security.Legal experts also flagged risks.