PANKAJ MOHAN YENI Vs. STATE OF ASSAM

JUDGEMENT

(1.) Heard Mr. S Borthakur, learned counsel for the petitioners. Also heard Mr. P Nayak, learned standing counsel, PWD appearing for respondent No.1, Mr. S Dutta, learned counsel appearing for respondent No.2 and Ms. S Sarma learned counsel for respondent Nos.3 & 4.

(2.) These two writ petitions are taken up for final disposal together as identical facts and issues are involved in this case and the learned counsel for the parties have also agreed.

(3.) The case of the petitioners in a nutshell is that the land of the petitioners have been acquired for the construction of roads under "Assam Mala", a notification dtd. 20/1/2021 introduced by the Government of Assam for improvement and up-gradation of State Highways and Major District Roads and externally aided projects. Such lands are to be acquired through direct purchase by way of a negotiated settlement. According to the petitioners, they have been paid the land acquisition compensation only to the extent of 50% of the total awarded amount, however, the remaining 50% has not been paid to them.