Yes, outsiders can generally buy land in Assam, provided they meet certain conditions, with specific exceptions.
Land Ownership Regulations in Assam
The regulations in Assam permit individuals, including those from outside the state, to purchase land. This policy is clearly articulated by state authorities, who have stated that any person possessing "white money" – referring to legally obtained and accounted for funds – faces no obstacles in acquiring land anywhere in Assam.
This general openness to land acquisition has been further solidified with the passage of the Assam Land and Revenue Regulation (Second Amendment) Bill, 2024, in the state Assembly. This legislation has effectively removed previous bars on the selling and buying of land across the state.
Key Exceptions and Considerations
While the general rule allows for broad land acquisition, there is a significant exception:
- Heritage Blocks: Land designated as "heritage blocks" is exempt from this general policy. This means that land within these specific protected areas is not available for buying or selling.
Summary of Land Purchase Conditions:
To provide a clearer overview, here's a summary of the conditions for land purchase in Assam:
| Aspect | Status/Condition | Details |
|---|---|---|
| General Land Purchase | Permitted | Open to any person, including non-residents, who possess legally acquired and accounted for funds ("white money"). |
| Heritage Blocks | Restricted | Land located in specially designated heritage areas is explicitly excluded from general land transactions. |
| Governing Legislation | Assam Land and Revenue Regulation (Second Amendment) Bill, 2024 | This recently passed Bill largely removes previous restrictions on land sale and purchase across the state. |
In essence, if the land is not within a heritage block and the transaction involves legitimate funds, outsiders can acquire property in Assam.
