Bangkok: The Director-General of the Land Department confirmed that the land of the Pak Chong golf course, 'Anutin', issued the title deed in accordance with legal procedures, indicating that any revocation must first verify the N.K.3 to ensure its correctness. He stated that the Land Department is not overlooking the issue but is concerned about the overlapping area, maintaining confidence that everything has been conducted in accordance with the law.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pornpoj Penpas, Director-General of the Land Department, addressed the issuance of N.K.3 land documents in the Lam Ta Khong self-reliance settlement area. He explained that the actual information resides with the settlement organizers, while confirming the Land Department's involvement. The department has issued title deeds for 4,500 plots, covering an area of over 25,000 rai, including the issuance of N.S.3 Kor. for approximately 217 plots, covering more than 2,600 rai, totaling approximately 4,700 plots under the department's authority. The total area is less than 30,000 rai, approximately 28,000 rai.
Mr. Pornpoj clarified that the title deeds issued by the Land Department, both the title deed and the NS3 Kor, adhered to the relevant regulations and laws at that time. This includes the golf course and racing area belonging to Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. The title deeds are valid and legal, aligning with the criteria based on the NS3 organized by the industrial estate. Verification by the government is mandatory before issuing such deeds, and any evidence provided by the industrial estate organizer is crucial for the department's confirmation of the title deeds.
In response to queries regarding potential land whitewashing for private sectors, Mr. Phonpoj emphasized the importance of examining the origin of the settlement establishment. The problematic area, while lawfully expanded according to the settlement's operations, overlaps with the ALRO. The Office of the Council of State opined in 2005 that if a settlement is established in the ALRO area, it cannot be reformed for agriculture. Therefore, the ALRO must allocate the area for settlement according to its objectives. Mr. Phonpoj reiterated that the Land Department is not involved in the overlapping area, which pertains to the settlement and ALRO area, and this issue must be resolved accordingly.
Addressing concerns about disputes between the ALRO and the Land Department in case of land reclamation, Mr. Phonpoj outlined the procedural steps, starting with explaining the settlement's establishment to benefit poor farmers. Should the N.K.3 from the settlement prove incorrect, the Land Department would need to revoke the title deed, following verification of the N.K.3's accuracy.
Regarding accountability for compensation in case of revoked land, Mr. Phonpoj stated that revocation is considered an administrative order, and the public would need to appeal against the issuer, namely the Land Department.
Inquiries about the possibility of revocation of Mr. Anutin's Pak Chong golf course land were addressed by Mr. Pornpoj, who said verification of the N.K.3's correctness is essential. The issue is complex and not recent, affecting thousands of households. He suggested consulting the National Land Commission Office for a comprehensive view on land management.
Mr. Phonpoj remained confident in the legality of the Land Department's actions, despite handling land issues like the Alpine land problems, Khao Kradong, and the Pak Chong golf course. He affirmed that the department's procedures were executed in accordance with the regulations and laws applicable during each era.
Mr. Pornpoj also noted the necessity of an investigation at the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, given the historical context. He highlighted the involvement of multiple agencies in such matters, beyond just the Land Department or the Ministry of Interior. He emphasized that while the Land Department can issue title deeds if there is a N.K.3, legitimacy requires consultation with the estate organizer. The department aims to inform the public of any changes, based on N.K.3 to title deeds, ensuring transparency and adherence to legal standards.