Tapu

Definition of "Tapu"

The Turkish system of granting lands to cultivators introduced by the law of 1858. The miri lands were granted directly to cultivators together with a land deed or tapu. The holder of a tapu was entitled to cultivate the land as he pleased, and was free to pledge or alienate it provided he received the express permission of the state. On his death, the land passed on to his lawful heirs without the necessity for a new lapu to be granted. If the possessor died without heirs, the land passed to inhabitants of the village. The permission of the state was also necessary before the holder could build houses or plant tree on his land. In return, the holder was obliged to make a payment to the government at the time of the original grant and was also liable to the rule of the shari‘ah whereby the holder was dispossessed if the land remained uncultivated for three years.