Why I Was Finally Able to Reclaim Possession of My Land
Harvinder standing on the new boundary “Watt” with recent installed Burjees.
It has now been more than a month since I successfully regained possession of the land that had been encroached upon by neighboring farmers, whether by mistake or deliberately, over many decades. Looking back, I believe several factors contributed to this peaceful and successful resolution.
1. Determination and patience
Having ‘Gur Tea’ in the farms.
The foremost reason was my and Harvinder’s unwavering determination to recover both the correct demarcation and physical possession of my land. This was not a battle of days or months, but of many years. Patience proved to be our greatest strength.
2. Learning from past mistakes
Demarcation in Mar 2025 conducted when the crops were yet to be harvested, was a grave mistake. I wanted to push through due constraints to go back.
Earlier, I had succeeded in getting the land measured, but I failed to secure actual possession of the encroached area. This time, I made sure that the process did not end with demarcation alone. I remained focused until possession was also restored.
3. Cooperation and support from the police
Visit by Punjab Police to inspect the site of dispute.
The support of the local police was invaluable. Their timely intervention, balanced approach, and willingness to maintain law and order were crucial in preventing the dispute from escalating. This support was made possible through the intervention of respected and appropriate well-wisher who spoke to the police on my behalf. At the same time, I ensured that the police officials were treated with due respect and courtesy throughout the process. Their cooperation created the confidence needed for both sides to eventually accept the lawful demarcation and hand over possession peacefully.
4. Accepting the truth about the disputed well.
The well is surrounded by old trees, it’s dry today though.
One important turning point involved an old irrigation well. My late father and I had always believed that the well was jointly owned by our family and our Mistry neighbors. However, when the revenue records were carefully examined, the Kanungo pointed out that the well, located in Khasra No. 193/26, had never been recorded in our family’s ownership. It appeared only in the Mistry family’s revenue records.
The marking of 193/26 and its adjoining well.
After verifying the documents with Mistrees myself, I realized that our long-held belief was incorrect. I immediately accepted the facts and willingly gave up any claim to the well. This honest acceptance created trust and goodwill with the neighbors.
At the same time, it became clear during the official measurements that while the well rightfully belonged to them, they were also occupying portions of my land beyond their legal entitlement. The facts were now evident to everyone.
The access path leading to the well, along with nearly half an acre of adjoining land that had remained uncultivated for years, was restored to me. Although one of the neighbors initially resisted giving up the remaining encroached land, after several days of discussions he too agreed, and possession was peacefully handed over.
5. Support from village leadership
Kisan Morcha Jwala Pardhan with yellow turbans helping mark the boundaries called “Watt”.
I also received wholehearted support from the village Sarpanch, respected villagers, and local Cooperative and Kisan Morcha leaders, particularly Jwala Pradhan. The villagers by now were aware of the fact that DhunAnand Foundations of Shivpreet Sardar was helping village School students. Equally invaluable was the guidance of Meghraj, who has managed the lease of my farmland for the past fifteen years. A hardworking, experienced, and wise man, Meghraj, a Brahmin by caste and a regular attendee of Radha Soami Satsangs, stood by me throughout the entire process. His practical judgment, deep understanding of the local situation, and calm advice made him my true right-hand man.
Meghraj an experienced tiller and a farmer was my right hand side.
From the very beginning, Meghraj and I had resolved that if the situation showed any signs of turning violent, we would immediately withdraw rather than allow bloodshed over land. At one stage, we even considered keeping licensed arms for self-defence because of the tense circumstances as the neighbors had all turned against Meghraj who in their opinion was passing on all weak points to Sardar. Fortunately, wisdom, restraint, and the cooperation of all concerned prevailed, and the matter was ultimately resolved peacefully.
6. Public opinion and changing circumstances
New “Watt” the boundary line
New Boundary poles “Burjees” are now been reinstated with mutual consent. The boundaries will be fortified after paddy season.Hogar.
Another contributing factor was that many villagers had become unhappy with the behavior of one of the Mistry brothers, whose arrogance and frequent quarrels had alienated people. In a recent incident, he had even injured the head of my leaseholder. Moreover, there were differences within their own family. These circumstances created an environment in which fairness and justice received greater community support.
7. Above all, Waheguru’s blessings
Ultimately, I believe that none of this would have been possible without Waheguru’s grace. Every factor came together at the right time, and the matter was resolved amicably without violence or prolonged litigation.
Paddy sown with Safeda tree in our portion of land.
Today, the reclaimed land has already been sown with paddy. Watching the young crop growing on land that has finally returned to its rightful owner is deeply satisfying.
Kapoor Family
It reminds me that patience, honesty, perseverance, and faith can ultimately prevail over even the longest-standing disputes. Dedicated to my beautiful family
While taking Langar, it’s thrilling to see two brothers even at their late stage sitting together to enjoy their food.
Bangla Sahib