GANPAT Vs. UNION OF INDIA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) These three appeals have been preferred under Section 54 of the Land Acquisition Act,1894 (here in after referred to as"theAct")against the judgment of Shri Padam Singh, Additional District Judge, Delhi answering three separate references under Section l8 of the Act and thereby determining the amount of compensation payable to the claimants/appellants. The claimants/appellants feeling aggrieved have sought further enhancement in the amount of compensation at the rate of Rs. 30,000.00per bigha.

(2.) 123 bighas 4 biswas of land situated in village Nangloi-Jat, Delhi was notified for being acquired for public purpose, namely. Planned Development of Delhi through Notification issued under Section 4(1) of the Act on 22.8.1973. It was followed by declaration issued under Section 6 of the Act on 31.7.1976. Collector proceeded further but before award could be announced, the acquiring Depart- ment informed him that only 55 bighas 11 biswas of land, which was lying vacant be acquired. Accordingly, Collector Land Acquisition proceeded to make his award No. 97/80-81 on 23.1.1981 offering compensation at the market rate of Rs. 5,650.00 per bigha. Claimants feeling dissatisfied sought references. The reference Court by the impugned awards held the claimants entitled to compensation at the rate of Rs. 6,000.00 per bigha. Still feeling dissatisfied the claimants have in these appeals sought further enhancement in the amount of compensation.

(3.) We have heard learned Counsel for the appellant. None appeared on behalf of the respondents when the appeals were called for hearing. These appeals have been on the hearing board for quite some time. On the last date appeals were adjourned for today specifically for being heard. Accordingly, the hearing proceed- ed in the absence of learned Counsel for the respondents.