“Encroachment” under the Act means:

The term "Encroachment" under the Act refers to any unauthorized interference with State property. This interference can be either temporary or permanent, signifying that even short-term unauthorized use or occupation falls under this definition. This foundational concept is crucial for protecting public assets from misuse.

• Option A is correct because it precisely defines encroachment as interference with State property, encompassing both temporary and permanent forms.
• Option B is false as "Private dispute over land" involves private parties and does not necessarily concern State property.
• Option C is false because "Illegal rent agreements" relate to contractual matters, not physical occupation or interference with property.
• Option D is false as "Unauthorized tax collection" is a fiscal or criminal offense, unrelated to property encroachment.