Possession as a custodian

Question

Question: Nowadays the government has launched a move whereby, as regards Indian residents who have settled abroad, outside the country, for the purpose of trade or employment, their property that is in India is handed over by the government to whoever holds it in possession, making them its owners; and if that person does not wish to take it, the government itself takes possession of it and gives that land to members of tribal communities and the lowest castes.

Answer

Just as that land has been in your possession for such a long time until now, keep it in your possession henceforth as well, with the intention of safeguarding it, and inform the real owner: “In the government papers my name has been entered as owner, but in reality you are the owner and I am its custodian. If you wish to take its price from me, take it, or make a gift (of it).

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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