Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman directs the Income Tax department to work for the benefit of common people, focusing on cases involving government assets. According to reports, she says the department has a responsibility to protect government property and to respond when such assets are encroached upon. She points to instances where government land is occupied or encroached, leading to situations where authorities may claim ownership of the land but are unable to build or use it due to the encroachment.
Sitharaman also expresses disappointment with what she describes as a “laidback” approach in dealing with these issues. Her comments underscore the expectation that relevant agencies should act proactively to prevent or address illegal occupation and encroachments on government lands. The reports present her remarks as a directive to ensure that enforcement and administrative efforts serve public interest, including preserving government assets and reducing unlawful use. Both outlets describe the remarks as part of a broader push for more active governance over government property.
