Summary
The Supreme Court refused further enhancement of acquisition compensation for Bhago Majra land, upholding the High Court’s differentiated valuation by location, quality, distance and potential. The established rates were Rs 2 lakh, Rs 1.6 lakh and Rs 1.2 lakh per acre for the three land classes. One separately situated appellant whose earlier appeal had concluded received parity with the same award, but without interest for the specified period of delay in seeking recall.
Issues
- Whether the High Court’s village-specific valuation warranted further enhancement.
- Whether the separately situated delayed-recall appellant should receive the same compensation.
Held
- The High Court had assessed each village’s location, quality and distance, using appropriate escalation and deductions rather than assuming all villages were identical. Its 20% deduction for Bhago Majra was supported by the record, including the site map. (¶ 16–19)
- No overlooked material evidence or fundamental valuation error was shown. Uniform treatment of the three land classes within Bhago Majra supplied no ground for further enhancement. (¶ 20–24)
- The appellant in the separate recall matter deserved parity with the established compensation, despite the earlier procedural refusal. Interest was excluded from 13 January 2009 to 1 August 2013, and disbursement directed. (¶ SLP(C) 6261/2014: 2–3)
Result
Principal and four connected enhancement appeals dismissed. Separate delayed-recall appeal allowed to grant the same compensation, excluding interest for 13 January 2009–1 August 2013; authorities to disburse in accordance with law.